Ontario Airport and California DMV join for REAL ID outreach

Ontario International Airport (ONT) has partnered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the sharing of information with airport travellers about new REAL ID driver licenses and identification card requirements that will take effect in 2020.

DMV representatives will employ people at information-only booths, beyond the TSA checkpoint, every second and fourth week of the month.

The focus of this partnership is to enable customers more time to ask queries and speak to DMV employees as they wait for their flights.

DMV acting director Kathleen Webb said: “We are bringing information directly to air travellers to explain their identification options to fly domestically.

“Our partnership with Ontario International Airport is a win-win for both of us in ensuring passengers are adequately prepared to pass through airport security when the new federal ID requirements take effect October 2020.”

Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) CEO Mark Thorpe said: “We’re pleased to partner with DMV in raising awareness of REAL ID and how important it is going to be for the travelling public to update their driver license or identification card.

“These information booths are one more example of our commitment to making travel as convenient as possible for our customers.”

Starting on 1 October 2020, the Department of Homeland Security will need passengers to show a valid passport or other federally approved document, such as a REAL ID driver license or identification card, for them to board flights within the US.

DMV employees at the airport will answer customer questions and save information for customers intending to visit a DMV field office to secure a REAL ID.