WQIO Ohio's Super Station
A new year means new travel plans for many people. Whether you’re looking ahead to a dream vacation, family reunion, or holiday travel plans, there are new travel requirements taking effect in 2025 that travelers – domestic and international – should be aware of.
United Kingdom (UK) Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
All U.S. citizens traveling to or through the UK (including layovers) for tourism, business, or short-term study for six months or less are required to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
The UK ETA is a digital travel authorization that will be required for most foreign visitors entering the United Kingdom. Modeled after the U.S. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the ETA is designed to enhance border security while simplifying the travel process for international visitors. It allows the UK to screen travelers before they arrive, reducing potential security risks and ensuring a smoother entry process at the border.
What travelers to the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) need to know about the ETA:
- This isn’t a visa – but travelers (including children) will have to pay a fee of about $12 USD. Each traveler must apply separately.
- Travelers are able to stay in the UK for up to six months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or short-term study
- Apply for an ETA ahead of your trip, no later than a few days before. Processing could take up to 72 hours.
- You will need your U.S. passport information when you apply for an ETA and a recent digital headshot.
- Your ETA lasts for 2 years – or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can travel to the UK as many times as you want during that time.
- Your ETA is linked to your current passport, so if you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.
- For urgent trips, you will still need to apply for an ETA before departure, but you can travel to the UK while waiting for a decision.
The European Union is also expected to launch a similar requirement later this year called ETIAS which covers 30 European nations. An official start date hasn’t been announced.
REAL ID
Domestic air travel will change for U.S. residents on May 7, 2025 when federal enforcement of REAL ID begins. Travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight.
REAL ID is optional in Ohio and now residents who want a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or photo ID card can once again apply for one ahead of the May 2025 federal enforcement date.
“AAA urges people who plan to travel domestically by plane to take advantage of the opportunity to get their REAL ID identification sooner rather than later,” said Kara Hitchens, manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA. “Travelers interested in obtaining a REAL ID should begin the application process ahead of time to ensure they do not experience any travel delays or postponements. A REAL ID or valid passport, will be required for all domestic flights beginning on May 7.”
AAA urges Ohioans to learn more about REAL ID before air travelers are required to have a REAL ID or valid passport in order to board a domestic flight beginning May 7, 2025.
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act is a federal law that affects how states issue driver’s licenses and photo ID cards if they’re going to be used for certain federal purposes, such as boarding a domestic commercial flight, access to military installations or entering a secure federal building that requires federally acceptable ID at the door.
- A REAL ID-compliant product will be marked with a gold star.
- REAL ID products are produced using the same security features as standard-issued products.
- After March 2019, standard-issue, non-REAL ID driver’s licenses and ID cards will also look different. Per federal REAL ID regulations, non-REAL IDs must be clearly labeled with the words “NOT FOR REAL ID PURPOSES.”
Do You Have to Get a REAL ID?
REAL ID is not required for Ohio residents. If you do not get a REAL ID, you must have an alternate form of federally-acceptable identification (valid passport, military ID, etc.) to board domestic commercial flights, access military installations, and enter certain federal facilities that require federally acceptable ID after May 7, 2025.
It is NOT necessary to have a REAL ID to:
- Drive
- Vote
- Apply for or receive federal benefits for which you are entitled (Veterans’ Affairs, Social Security Administration, etc.)
- Visit the post office
- Access hospitals
- Access Federal Courts, testify in federal court, etc.
What is the process to apply for a REAL ID?
The first step in the process to receiving a REAL ID is verification. Visit any deputy registrar license agency and provided the required documents.
Applicants need to bring the following documents:
- An original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised/embossed seal OR a valid U.S. passport
- Social security card (can be laminated or unlaminated) in current legal name
- Proof of legal name changes such as a certified marriage certificate or court order
- Utility bill with proof of address dated within the last six months.
For more info on required documents, visit Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
TSA PreCheck® for Travel Ease
AAA recommends air travelers to secure a Known Traveler Number (KTN) provided by TSA PreCheck®. TSA PreCheck® enables identified low-risk air travelers to enjoy an expedited and efficient security screening experience. If approved, travelers get a five-year membership with the program. Enrolled members do not need to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets. They are able to access TSA PreCheck® dedicated screening lanes at over 200 participating U.S. airports nationwide.
The program is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and lawful permanent residents. Travelers can apply for TSA PreCheck® at select AAA retail locations. Learn more at AAA.com/TSA.
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