A long-anticipated travel requirement officially takes effect today, as U.S. air travelers must now present a REAL ID-compliant identification to clear Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints for domestic flights.
REAL ID, which features a star or flag symbol in the upper corner, is now the only acceptable form of state-issued ID for air travel.
Regular driver’s licenses and standard ID cards no longer meet federal standards set under the REAL ID Act.
The TSA and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have issued repeated warnings urging Americans to prepare ahead of the deadline.
Speaking before a Congressional panel on Monday, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that 81% of American travellers have already obtained REAL IDS. However, this leaves approximately one-fifth of the travelling public potentially unprepared for the change.
Authorities have raised concerns that this gap could lead to confusion, longer queues, and delays at airports across the country. Despite this, Secretary Noem reassured travellers that they would not be barred from flying immediately if they lacked the updated ID.
“Travellers lacking a REAL ID will still be able to fly for the time being, but may be diverted to a different line or have an extra step,” said Noem. “We will make sure it’s as seamless as possible.”
Alternatives to the REAL ID include US passports and tribal identification cards. For international travelers or non-US citizens, no changes are being made, as they are already required to present valid passports upon arrival and during domestic transit.
TSA officials say they are fully prepared for the shift. “TSA is planning accordingly to ensure no impact to wait times or TSA screening operations,” said Lisa Farbstein, spokesperson for the agency’s New York region.
Travelers who attempt to pass through security with a standard state-issued ID will be informed of their non-compliance and may undergo additional screening procedures, according to Farbstein.
The nationwide rollout of the REAL ID requirement has been years in the making. Initially set for implementation in 2020, it was delayed multiple times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused widespread disruptions and backlogs at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offices.
To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must apply in person at a DMV or MVD office or begin the process online.
Required documentation includes proof of full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, lawful U.S. status, and current residential address.
REAL ID is a federal standard established by the REAL ID Act of 2005, aimed at strengthening security measures in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Officials say enforcement of the new rules is critical for national security, and efforts will continue to inform and assist travelers still in need of upgrading their identification.
