Travelers lacking REAL ID face enhanced security checks, yet permitted to fly temporarily, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
Laid-Back Look at the REAL ID Deadline Drama
Hey there! Let's talk about the REAL ID chaos on Capitol Hill, shall we? Our pals at Digital had a chat with some lawmakers about their constituents' preparations for the REAL ID deadline on May 7. (Credit: Nicholas Ballasy)
Fear not, folks without REAL IDs! While you'll be subjected to extra screening and possible delays at the airport beyond May 7, you can still catch your flight.
Homeland Security Sec. Kristi Noem cleared the air during a House Appropriations Committee hearing on Tuesday. Noem shared that 81% of travelers are already sailing through with IDs that meet the REAL ID requirements. Security checkpoints will also accept passports and tribal identification when the deadline arrives on Wednesday.
"People will be allowed to fly," Noem assured lawmakers. "We'll make it as hassle-free as possible."
Those still lacking REAL ID-compliant identification may encounter extra hurdles. Noem predicted they might be re-routed to a separate line, requiring additional steps.
WEDDED WOMEN FACE REAL ID Hurdles: "THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!"
The REAL ID showdown begins on May 7, but Homeland Security officials claim Americans without it can continue traveling for now. (Getty Images)
The REAL ID is a state-issued license or identification card that meets federal security standards. It was recommended by the 9/11 Commission in 2005, but rolling it out hasn't been a walk in the park.
THE SURPRISING REASON BEHIND AMERICANS' REJECTION OF REAL ID
Getting a REAL ID involves tougher identity verification procedures than ever before, leading to anxiety among travelers who fear they won't make it before the May 7 deadline.
DHS Sec. Kristi Noem provided more insights into the REAL ID rollout during the Tuesday hearing. (Getty Images)
Travelers without a REAL ID can present a U.S. passport, but if you're caught empty-handed, there are alternatives. However, be prepared for delays, and remember that these options might not always work.
Passengers will need to complete a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Form 415, also known as the Certification of Identity form. Should the TSA agents confirm the provided details, passengers can proceed through security and board their flight. Passengers choosing this route should be aware of potential extra screenings, like additional pat-downs or questioning.
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Even if you're denied, there's a silver lining. Many airlines have policies that let passengers reschedule their flight for the next day, giving those without the necessary documentation extra time to obtain it.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Digital, covering national politics and major breaking news events. Drop him a line at [email protected], or hit him up on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
- Despite the upcoming REAL ID deadline on May 7, travelers without compliant IDs can still catch their flights, but will face additional screening and possible delays at the airport.
- Homeland Security Sec. Kristi Noem revealed during a House Appropriations Committee hearing that 81% of travelers are already equipped with IDs meeting the REAL ID standards.
- Wedded women could face hurdles when it comes to obtaining REAL IDs, causing some dissatisfaction, as observed in a news headline that reads, "WEDDED WOMEN FACE REAL ID Hurdles: 'THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE!.'"
- The REAL ID is a state-issued license or identification card that adheres to federal security standards, recommended by the 9/11 Commission in 2005.
- To progress through security with a U.S. passport as an alternative to a REAL ID, passengers may require extra steps, including completing a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Form 415, also known as the Certification of Identity form.
- Travelers absent a REAL ID or other compliant identification can reschedule their flight for the next day in some cases, as many airlines have policies that accommodate their customers under such circumstances.
