
Fresno Yosemite International Airport image via City of Fresno.
Written by Dylan Gonzales
Starting May 7, all travelers flying out of Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) will need a REAL ID-compliant license or other approved identification to board their flight.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced Thursday that the new requirement applies to all travelers aged 18 and older.
In California, a REAL ID can be identified by a bear and star symbol on the upper right corner of a driver’s license or ID card.
Travelers without a compliant ID will need to present an alternate form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, military ID or Trusted Traveler card, to pass through airport security.
The deadline comes just over two weeks after what FAT expects to be a busy Easter holiday travel period, where TSA expects to screen more than 21,500 passengers through April 21.
The agency said 4–7 a.m., 10 a.m.–noon, and 9–11 p.m. are the busiest screening periods and advises travelers to arrive early, especially during those peak hours.
In addition to securing the REAL ID prior to the deadline, TSA recommends passengers pack according to guidelines, limit carry-on liquids to 3.4 ounces or less and place personal items like phones and wallets in their bags before screening to avoid delays.
The TSA encourages enrolling in TSA PreCheck, which offers access to shorter, faster screening lanes. The TSA also encourages passengers to use the myTSA mobile app or the AskTSA text line (275-872) for real-time assistance with travel questions.
Additional information on REAL ID requirements and how to apply is available at tsa.gov/real-id and dmv.ca.gov.