Real ID enforcement will begin on Wednesday, and now we’re seeing more clearly how this affects individuals who haven’t met the deadline yet but still intend to travel.
A variety of travelers expressed differing views on the reasons behind the implementation of the Real ID requirement. Nonetheless, according to TSA officials such as Chief of Staff Adam Stahl, the enforcement begins this coming Wednesday.
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“This revolves around identity and document authenticity, hence our primary focus is on securing the safety of our airspace,” Stahl stated.
Stahl emphasized that ensuring security and safety both in the air and around federal facilities across the country is where individuals will primarily benefit from having their Real IDs. This legislation came into being in 2005 after the September 11 attacks with the aim of enhancing identification processes for improved security measures.
“Many residents aren’t aware they possess a Real ID; it’s indicated by a small star, either black or gold, at the top of their identification,” Stahl explained.
To get a Real ID, individuals require documentation such as a birth certificate and evidence of their Social Security number. However, should you not possess one and must travel by air, you might still be permitted to board after undergoing extra security checks.
“If you plan to travel tomorrow and your state-issued ID doesn’t meet the requirements, don’t worry; you’ll still make it past the checkpoint. We simply recommend that travelers allocate extra time for their journey,” Stahl stated.
Certain travelers such as Marianna Wright remained unbothered by the actual motivations for implementing the Real ID.
“I think it is the inevitable expansion of the rollback of our right to privacy that the government has been planning for years, and legislation after 9/11. I don’t know that anybody should be concerned. They don’t have any control over it,” Wright said.
And with the enforcement starting May 7, other travelers like Charlotte Lacy are wondering if this REAL ID will make a real difference in securing the areas it’s meant for.
“If I was working in one of the federal buildings, I would like to know for sure, you know, who’s coming and going,” Lacy said.
“It’s here, and there’s really no escaping it,” Wright said.
According to TSA’s website, if you don’t have a Real ID and need to fly, acceptable forms of ID include an enhanced driver’s license or a U.S. passport.
And if you don’t have either of those expect to go through extra security screening or be denied access on a flight.
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