‘Some wiggle room,' travel expert says of REAL ID deadline
After a 20-year waiting game, REAL ID requirements for Americans flying within the U.S. took effect Wednesday.
Travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification can still fly, but they should anticipate longer wait times in airport security, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
The TSA has advised travelers without a REAL ID to arrive at the airport at least three hours ahead of their flight and to be prepared for advanced screenings.
Clint Henderson, managing editor of travel website 'The Points Guy,' told NewsNation that there is two years of 'wiggle room built into' the rollout.
But, he added, those traveling domestically will 'eventually' need a REAL ID.
'We've been kicking the can down the road for some time on this,' Henderson continued. 'I'm actually glad to see it's going into effect.'
'Apparently, they're not turning many people away who don't have a REAL ID,' he added.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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