Travelers should be aware that with the upcoming deadline this week, flying is still possible but will involve increased scrutiny, as stated by Homeland Security’s Director on Tuesday.
According to Christie Noem, who addressed a Congressional panel, around 81% of travelers already possess IDs that meet the Real ID requirements. She clarified that, starting Wednesday, security checkpoints would also accept passports and tribal IDs.
For those without the necessary ID that meets the Real ID standards, extra steps will be required, and they might be directed to a different line, as Noem mentioned. She reassured the public, saying, “But people are allowed to fly. We’ll make sure it’s as seamless as possible.”
A Real ID is essentially a federally compliant state-issued license or identification card recognized by Homeland Security as a safer form of ID. This initiative stemmed from a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission and was enacted into law in 2005, though its rollout faced numerous delays.
