America’s New Era of Air Travel: REAL ID Now Required—Here’s What You Need to Know

 

The day has finally arrived: Starting today, anyone flying within the United States will need to show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card at airport security checkpoints. If you haven’t upgraded your ID yet, don’t panic—here’s the inside scoop on what’s changing, what to expect at the airport, and how you can still travel if you’re not quite REAL ID ready.

Smooth Sailing—For Most Travelers

A US Department of Homeland Security "Real ID" compliant driver's license sign is seen outside the TSA checkpoint at Chicago O'Hare International Airport on April 23.

Early reports from airports across the country show that the transition is going more smoothly than many anticipated. Signs about the new requirements are everywhere, and TSA agents are on hand to help. At some airports, travelers without a REAL ID are being directed to special lines for extra screening, but the process has been orderly, with few major holdups.

In fact, at Philadelphia International Airport, federal officials said passengers were well-prepared and lines moved quickly. Many travelers simply used their passports as an alternative form of ID, leading one TSA director to remark, “I don’t think we’ve ever seen so many passports for domestic flights.”

At Atlanta’s busy Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, a separate security lane for travelers without a REAL ID was eliminated by mid-morning—so few people needed it. In Charlotte, North Carolina, extra staff and security lanes were ready, but most people breezed through with the proper ID in hand.

But DMV Lines Are a Different Story

While airports have been calm, some state motor vehicle offices are experiencing chaos. In Chicago, the line to get a REAL ID at a walk-in “supercenter” stretched around the block as last-minute applicants scrambled to comply.

How smoothly things go at the airport may depend on your state. Georgia and Florida report that over 99% of residents already have a REAL ID, while states like Alabama and North Carolina are lagging far behind.

What If You Don’t Have a REAL ID Yet?

Don’t worry—Wednesday isn’t a hard deadline for getting your REAL ID. It’s simply the day the new rules take effect. If you show up at the airport without a REAL ID, you can still fly, but you’ll likely face extra screening. Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, passport card, permanent resident card, or a Veteran Health Identification Card.

TSA officials stress that no traveler will be turned away outright today. “We’ll process you. You will not be turned away,” said one TSA executive. “It might take some additional time, but we’re going to do it efficiently.”

The REAL ID: What Is It and Why Now?

At the Philadelphia International Airport, passengers that do not have a REAL ID were given information on the requirements by TSA officers.

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets strict federal security standards. You’ll recognize it by the star in the upper right corner. The push for this enhanced security standard came from recommendations after 9/11, and after years of delays, it’s finally being enforced.

Without a REAL ID (or an acceptable alternative), you won’t just be stopped at airport security—you’ll also be barred from entering certain federal buildings.

What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Arrive Early: With new rules in place, allow extra time at the airport, especially if you’re not sure your ID is compliant.
Check Your ID: Look for the star in the corner. If you don’t see it, you may need to bring another form of identification.
Alternative IDs: Passports, permanent resident cards, and several other documents are still accepted.
Be Patient: TSA staff are ready to help, but lines may be longer as everyone adjusts.

States Step Up Their Game

To help residents get up to speed, DMVs in many states are extending hours, adding weekend appointments, and ramping up staff. In California, you can now book Saturday visits. In Oklahoma, officials urge travelers to apply at least four weeks in advance, since temporary paper IDs won’t be accepted.

The Bottom Line

The REAL ID era is here. If you haven’t upgraded yet, you can still fly with an alternative ID—but expect a little extra time at security. For those planning future travel, now’s the moment to check your wallet and make sure you’re REAL ID ready.

Ready to take off? Double-check your ID, arrive early, and enjoy your flight in the new age of American air travel!