Context:

The REAL ID requirement, which had been delayed for two decades, was implemented smoothly at airports across the United States, contrary to fears of chaos and long lines. Despite 20% of the public not yet having REAL ID-compliant identification, travelers encountered minimal disruptions, and TSA lines moved efficiently. Some passengers without compliant IDs were allowed to fly after additional screening, although they were warned that future travel might require longer processing times. The law, intended to enhance national security by verifying the identity of travelers, gained urgency after the 9/11 attacks. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that REAL ID measures improve security by providing more information about travelers on federal transportation systems.

Dive Deeper:

• The implementation of the REAL ID requirement went smoothly, with no major disruptions reported at airports, despite concerns about potential chaos and long lines on the first day.

• Around 20% of the public still lacks a REAL ID-compliant identification, causing some uncertainty about travel times, although TSA spokespersons had advised travelers to arrive early.

• Airports like Nashville International and Baltimore-Washington International confirmed efficient TSA line movement, and no significant complaints were reported by passengers at major hubs.

• Travelers without a REAL ID or its equivalent, like a passport, could still fly with additional screening, but they were cautioned that future travel might involve longer processing times without proper identification.

• The REAL ID law was catalyzed by post-9/11 security concerns and seeks to enhance national security by ensuring accurate identification of travelers on federal transportation systems.

• The federal government has been working towards implementing the REAL ID requirement for two decades, facing several delays while trying to address concerns about false identification.

• Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem highlighted the security benefits of the REAL ID, stating that it provides more information about who is traveling, thus making federal transportation systems and airlines more secure.