Checking your bags? TSA bans item before Real ID deadline. Here's what's no longer allowed
Alex PerryMichelle Ganassi
USA TODAY NETWORK
The Transportation Security Administration has banned another travel item ahead of the May 7
Real ID deadline.
Travelers using portable chargers or power banks should double-check their batteries for lithium, which is now prohibited in checked luggage.
Here's what to know before your next flight.
What items fall under the new TSA checked luggage ban?
Portable
chargers and power banks containing a lithium-ion battery can be packed in carry-on bags only and kept inside the aircraft cabin, according to the Federal Aviation Administration's latest
guidance. Lithium batteries can pose a fire hazard and are subject to overheating and creating sparks, especially if damaged.
The rule applies to electronics and external battery chargers that contain a lithium-ion battery, which cannot be stored inside checked bags. This includes:
- Power banks
- Cellphone battery charging cases
- Rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium batteries
- Cellphone batteries
- Laptop batteries
- External batteries
- Portable rechargers
To check which items are allowed or banned on board, check the
TSA's online search function.
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What is a Real ID?
The requirement comes from the Real ID Act, which Congress passed in 2005 to improve national security following 9/11.
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How do I get a Real ID in Delaware?
To upgrade your driver's license or other state-issued ID, you must bring it to a Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles location. Everyone, including those with existing IDs, must bring specific documentation to either upgrade to or obtain a new compliant ID.Acceptable documents include birth certificates, passports and certificates of naturalization or citizenship. You must also bring proof of your Social Security number and two proofs of Delaware residency.A complete list of acceptable and necessary documents is available
on the Delaware DMV's website.
How much does it cost to get a Real ID?
In Delaware, upgrading a current driver's license or ID costs $20, the same as the regular duplicate fee.
Can I still drive without a Real ID?
Yes. Driver's licenses that are not Real ID-compliant are still valid for operating vehicles and can still be used to verify one's age to purchase alcohol or firearms.
What are the alternatives to a Real ID?
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Border crossing card
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Can I use a Real ID to travel internationally?
Travel outside of the U.S. will still require a passport book.
