TSA Proposes Real ID Delay Out to 2027

The Real ID Act, enacted in 2005, mandates that all US residents aged 18 and older must present a Real ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights. Initially set to take effect in 2008, the implementation has faced numerous delays due to low adoption rates among states and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest proposal from the TSA extends the deadline for compliance to May 5, 2027, while encouraging travelers to obtain their Real IDs by May 7, 2025. As of January 2024, only 56% of issued IDs are Real ID-compliant, prompting concerns about a potential influx of travelers without proper identification at airports. The TSA plans to issue warnings to those lacking compliant IDs starting in 2025, aiming to nudge individuals to update their documents ahead of the final enforcement date. The gradual enforcement strategy is designed to mitigate the risk of security issues and delays during peak travel times, particularly around holidays. The TSA's approach reflects a recognition of the challenges posed by low compliance rates and the need for a structured rollout to ensure that travelers are adequately prepared. Overall, the proposed delay highlights ongoing efforts to balance security requirements with the practical realities of public compliance, as authorities seek to avoid chaos at airports while encouraging timely applications for Real IDs.