Americans Without Real ID Will Still Be Allowed to Fly Despite New Federal Requirement, Says DHS

• Real ID takes effect
• Flying without it will still be allowed
• Undocumented immigrants most affected

Americans who still do not have a Real ID will be able to board domestic commercial flights despite the official implementation of the law, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on Tuesday.

The federal law, which requires enhanced identity verification for travel, went into effect on May 7. However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will allow certain flexibilities.

“What will happen tomorrow is that people will go through the line and be asked to present their ID,” Noem explained during a congressional hearing.

“If it doesn’t meet the requirements, they may be redirected to another line. An additional step will be required, but they will be allowed to fly.”

Noem did not clarify whether this Real ID measure will apply only on the first day

Noem did not specify whether the flexibility will apply only on the first day or whether it will continue in the following days as part of a transition period.

“We intend to comply with the law while ensuring that this transition is as smooth as possible and that travelers can stay on their planned itineraries.
But we are letting people know that this law will be enforced. It will help us know who people are in this country and whether they are authorized to travel,” she stated.

Currently, 81% of travelers passing through security checkpoints already have an ID that meets Real ID standards, according to the secretary.

The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 as a response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, but its enforcement has been delayed several times due to logistical and preparedness concerns.

As of May 7, all passengers aged 18 and older must present a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, to board domestic flights.

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In addition, this type of ID will also be required to access federal buildings and facilities.

Immigrant advocacy organizations have warned that the measure will disproportionately affect undocumented individuals, who are being increasingly targeted by detention and deportation efforts.

Driver’s licenses issued to individuals without legal status—such as those granted under California’s AB60 law—will not be accepted as valid identification at airports under Real ID regulations.

This policy change may pose a significant obstacle for thousands of people who, despite living and working in the United States, do not possess the documents required by federal law.

Do you already have your Real ID, or do you think this measure makes travel within the country even more difficult?

SOURCE: EFE