TSA Reminds Passengers About REAL ID

As of May 7, the TSA began requiring all passengers over the age of 18 to have REAL ID-compliant identification in order to fly domestically. While those without compliant IDs will still be accommodated, the TSA is still is reminding everyone that the requirement is still in place.

In an announcement on Wednesday ahead of what is expected to be a busy Memorial Day Weekend for travel, the TSA issued a reminder to everyone that the new standards are in place and "is the law of the land moving forward."

“TSA has been very pleased with the high rate of compliance with REAL ID requirements among travelers. We have seen little to no disruption in our security operations since REAL ID enforcement started on May 7,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Idaho James Spies in statement. “As we approach the busy summer travel season, we continue to remind travelers that REAL ID enforcement is the law of the land moving forward. Travelers 18 and older should plan now for the type of photo identification they will use during the TSA identity verification process.” 

The TSA warned that those without REAL ID-compliant identification "may experience delays and receive additional screening when they arrive at the TSA security checkpoint."

Originally introduced with the REAL ID Act of 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the new, more secure ID card adheres to stricter standards and is identifiable by a gold star in the upper right corner of the card.

Implementation of the act was repeatedly delayed for nearly two decades, but the May 7 deadline was the final deadline, and all passengers are expected to comply with the new identification standards going forward.