The fourth phase of the REAL ID Act begins on October 1, 2020. At that time, every traveler will need to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, or another form of accepted ID, such as a passport, in order to board federally regulated commercial aircraft. This has the potential to disrupt corporate travel programs, so travel managers should consider how they can educate their travelers about the upcoming changes. Here are some tips to get you started.
Ongoing, consistent communication will be key for communicating this change. You can start by explaining to your employees exactly what the REAL ID Act is. The Department of Homeland Security, which is responsible for the Act, has a wealth of information about the various phases, status of states’ compliance, and deadlines, on their website.
Since each of your traveling employees will be responsible for securing a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license if they so choose, they will have to find time in their schedule to do that. We all know how easy it is to procrastinate and put off tasks like these, so ongoing reminders will be helpful in this regard. Remember, as October 1, 2020 nears, longer lines at local DMVs should be expected and possible delays in processing. When on-boarding new employees that will be traveling on behalf of your company, you’ll want to be sure they are aware of the REAL ID Act, as well.
Even though we’re a little over a year out from the enforcement date, it’s still a good idea to start putting together a communication plan and implementing it, especially if your traveling workforce is large. For more information about the REAL ID Act or for assistance communicating this with your employees, contact Travel Leaders / Destinations Unlimited.