Overview
- The REAL ID Act, set to be enforced starting May 7, 2025, mandates compliant identification for domestic flights and federal facility access.
- The TSA reports that roughly 20% of travelers still lack a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative, raising concerns about potential disruptions at airports.
- Travelers without compliant IDs will face additional screenings, potential delays, and may be denied entry at TSA checkpoints, according to officials.
- Sen. Jack Reed has formally requested DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to outline measures to manage the anticipated challenges and avoid disruptions.
- Acceptable alternatives to REAL ID include U.S. passports, military IDs, and other TSA-approved credentials, but travelers are urged to prepare in advance.