WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Individuals will no longer be able to access Hanscom Air Force Base or other Air Force installations with a state-issued identification card or driver’s license from Minnesota, Missouri, Washington or American Samoa beginning Aug. 15.
This new change aligns the Air Force’s installation access policy with requirements of the Real ID Act, which focuses on improving the reliability of state-issued identification documents and helps prevent a person’s ability to evade detection by using a fraudulent form of ID.
While ID’s that do not meet security and data-collection guidelines will not be accepted, alternate forms of identification will be allowed. Some of the more common alternatives include a valid U.S. or foreign government issued passport, an employment authorization document that contains a photograph, or ID cards issued by federal, state or local government agencies that include a photo and biographic information.
According to Air Force officials, all individuals attempting to gain unescorted access to an Air Force installation without a Defense Department ID card must present proper identification and will be subject to a routine background check before entering.
“Whether escorted or unescorted, a valid form of identification is required,” said Maj. Joseph A. Bincarousky, 66th Security Forces Squadron commander. “When visitors are escorted onto base, the approved escort is required to be physically present with the individual for the duration of the visit.”
He added that the installation commander may still deny access and issuance of access credentials if the background check determines the individual represents a threat or negatively impacts the safety or security of Hanscom’s personnel or resources.
Bincarousky also noted that all current Defense Biometric Identification Systems (DBIDS) cards would remain valid until the expiration date listed.
“We take the safety of our service members, civilians and their families who support them very seriously,” Bincarousky said. “The security of our people is one of the Air Force’s highest priorities.”
For a full list of Real ID Act compliant and non-complaint states, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website at https://www.dhs.gov/current-status-states-territories.
Last month, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signed legislation for the Commonwealth to be incompliance with the federal Real ID Act.
Watch the Hansconian and www.hanscom.af.mil for updates. For further information, contact Capt. Christopher J. McNamee at 781-225-5621.
(Editor's Note: 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs contributed to this article.)