TSA begins enforcing REAL ID requirement to board domestic flights
NEW JERSEY (WABC) -- The Department of Homeland Security has started enforcing Real ID requirements for travel on domestic flights Wednesday after nearly 20 years of delays.
The TSA said things are going smoothly so far at airports nationwide and there have not been any significant disruptions.
Travelers who aren't REAL ID compliant will still be able to fly but should be prepared for extra scrutiny, the head of Homeland Security said Tuesday.
Those passengers who don't have a REAL ID, passport or other federally recognized documentation will likely have to go to a different line and face additional security to board a domestic flight.
Other forms of acceptable ID include a U.S. passport, a Global Entry card, a Department of Defense ID or a permanent resident card.
In the months leading up to the deadline, many people have been scrambling to get appointments.
Data shows that 81% of eligible Americans have their REAL IDs. That number is 45% in New York.
New Jersey has some of the lowest compliance rates in the nation with just 19% of residents in compliance with the order.
If you don't have a form of REAL ID, officials say you will still be able to fly but you should plan for an extra hour at the airport to go through extra security.
Another potential hurdle may come as delays and cancellations mount at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Staffing shortages, equipment outages and runway construction have been to blame for the ongoing travel woes over the last week and a half.
Air traffic controllers lost radar and communications with planes packed with passengers for about a minute last Monday.
Controllers couldn't see, hear, or talk to all arriving and departing planes.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is expected to announce plans this week to make air traffic control safer to prevent outages.
Meanwhile, Newark has issued a travel advisory urging people to get to the airport early as REAL ID enforcement begins.
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