Context:

The REAL ID law, passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 attacks, officially took effect on May 7, 2025, at airports across the United States, requiring travelers to have a federally compliant driver's license or identification for domestic air travel. Travelers at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport shared their opinions on the rollout, with many praising the government's efforts to inform the public and enhance security, although some felt the process could have been smoother. The Department of Homeland Security has clarified that those without a REAL ID can still travel but will face additional screening. The implementation has been delayed multiple times due to factors like the pandemic and initial non-compliance from some states. The REAL ID is only available to legal U.S. citizens or residents, with U.S. passports remaining a valid alternative for travel identification.

Dive Deeper:

• The REAL ID Act, introduced in 2005 to enhance security for driver's licenses, aims to prevent terrorism-related incidents like those on 9/11, and its enforcement began on May 7, 2025, after several delays.

• Travelers at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport expressed mixed reactions, with some commending the government for effectively notifying the public about the new requirements and others feeling the rollout could have been better managed.

• The Department of Homeland Security allows travelers without a REAL ID to continue flying domestically, albeit with additional screening, while emphasizing that a REAL ID or a valid U.S. passport is necessary for compliance.

• The act's nationwide implementation faced challenges, including delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, backlog issues at DMVs, and resistance from states like South Carolina, with some states having complied as early as 2013.

• The REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification available only to legal U.S. citizens or residents, ensuring higher standards than standard state-issued driver's licenses.

• Some travelers highlighted the importance of the REAL ID for bolstering security at airports and federal buildings, while others noted a lack of awareness despite the government's efforts over the years.

• The transition to REAL ID has been a lengthy process, with Georgia being among the states that have been proactive in preparing residents, though some frequent travelers claimed they were still caught off guard by the enforcement.