The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially begun enforcing the REAL ID requirement at all Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints across the United States. While this marks a significant shift in federal travel regulations, most travelers may not feel any impact. DHS reports that approximately 81 percent of travelers are already using a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
“REAL ID helps ensure that travelers are who they say they are and prevents fraud by criminals, terrorists, and illegal aliens,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “Enforcing federal law will help keep American travelers safe.”
REAL ID, introduced through legislation passed in 2005, was one of several security reforms initiated after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The law mandates that individuals use a federally compliant form of identification for certain activities such as boarding domestic flights and entering specific federal facilities. Its full enforcement has seen multiple delays over the years, but as of this week, implementation is officially underway.
TSA has stated that the new enforcement will not disrupt airport operations or increase wait times, especially for those travelers who are already carrying a REAL ID, passport, or another acceptable form of identification. For those who do not have a REAL ID-compliant ID and cannot present an alternative valid ID, they will still be able to board flights, but they might undergo more intensive security screening.
“Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening,” the DHS explained in the FAQ section on its Real ID webpage.
The enforcement signals a push toward higher compliance levels. TSA expects that more travelers will seek out REAL IDs in the coming months. Until nearly all travelers comply, TSA will continue to apply additional screening protocols to those who lack acceptable identification.
For travelers flying within the U.S., a passport remains a viable alternative to the REAL ID. The DHS also confirmed that “State-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and identification cards (EDL/EID) are designated as acceptable border-crossing documents by DHS under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and are an acceptable alternative to a REAL ID for boarding a commercial aircraft, accessing federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants.”
Although the government is now requiring compliance, there is some leniency in the immediate aftermath of the enforcement deadline. People without a REAL ID will still be able to travel, provided they carry an alternate approved ID. However, they may need to prepare for more thorough screening procedures at TSA checkpoints.
What exactly does the “additional screening” entail? The DHS has not provided precise details, but the TSA outlines a broad range of security practices on its website. These include both visible and less apparent procedures. As stated by the TSA, “TSA incorporates unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, to accomplish our transportation security mission.”
The agency already employs a mix of technologies and procedures to secure the nation’s transportation systems. These include advanced imaging technologies like millimeter wave scanners, walk-through metal detectors, and screening of carry-on and checked baggage. International travelers are especially likely to undergo more comprehensive checks, including the inspection of personal electronics and other property.
For those seeking to obtain a REAL ID, the DHS advises individuals to visit their respective state or territory’s Department of Motor Vehicles. The documentation requirements are consistent across the U.S., although some states might have slight variations. The DHS states that applicants will generally need “documentation showing: 1) Full Legal Name; 2) Date of Birth; 3) Social Security Number; 4) Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence; and 5) Lawful Status.” Depending on the jurisdiction, additional documents may also be required.
Identifying whether your current ID meets the REAL ID standard is relatively simple. REAL IDs are typically marked with a star near the top right corner of the card. If that symbol is absent, your card is most likely not compliant.
Although the enforcement date has passed, DHS has not specified a final cutoff date when noncompliant individuals will be fully barred from boarding domestic flights. For now, the agency appears to be focusing on education and phased enforcement rather than immediate penalties.
A spokesperson from TSA emphasized the agency’s commitment to increased compliance. “TSA continues to collaborate with its state, airport and airline partners toward a compliance rate closer to 100% for those with either a state-issued REAL ID or an acceptable alternative form of ID,” the spokesperson said in a statement to The Hill.
For travelers, the implications are clear. While immediate travel disruptions may be minimal, those without a REAL ID or equivalent form of identification should begin the process of obtaining one. Not only will this help them avoid additional screening, but it will also ensure a smoother travel experience as enforcement measures grow more stringent over time.
REAL ID compliance has steadily increased in recent years, in part due to ongoing federal outreach and public awareness campaigns. The measure aims to close security loopholes and prevent identity fraud, ultimately strengthening the integrity of travel and federal facility access nationwide.
More detailed information about the REAL ID program is available through the official TSA website at TSA.gov/real-id.
With the nationwide enforcement now active, travelers are being encouraged to verify their current ID status and prepare for any changes that may impact future flights. Although the process to obtain a REAL ID is relatively straightforward, delays at local DMV offices or missing documentation can slow the process, making early action advisable.
As the TSA continues to implement these changes, it is clear that REAL ID is no longer just a recommendation—it is an essential part of the security infrastructure that governs U.S. air travel and federal access. The time for preparation is now, especially for those planning to travel in the coming months.
Travelers who act early will likely experience fewer delays and smoother interactions at checkpoints. For everyone else, added scrutiny and potential delays could become a routine part of flying until they update their identification.
By mandating the use of secure, federally recognized IDs, the DHS and TSA hope to maintain a robust and trustworthy system that prioritizes national safety without significantly disrupting the public’s travel experience.