Latest news with #DonnaBarron
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Yahoo
Real ID requirement kicks in today at airports across U.S.
As of Wednesday, U.S. travelers flying domestically are required to show a Real ID at airport checkpoints. The May 7 deadline for Americans to switch to the federally compliant identification comes after being delayed for more than 20 years. In the weeks before the new ID requirement was set to take effect on Wednesday, travelers gathered outside of state driver's license agencies across the country to secure their Real ID, which has a star marking at the upper-right part of the card. Five states — Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont — also issue what is called an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), or Enhanced ID. This is considered an acceptable alternative to a Real ID card. CBS News captured long wait times at the Real ID Supercenter in downtown Chicago and the DMV in Pomona, California, with lines snaking around the block. Those without Real ID can still apply While the cards are required for domestic air travel starting Wednesday, officials have emphasized that May 7 is not the last day Americans can get a Real ID. "The vast majority of people do not need a Real ID before Wednesday," Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias told CBS News Chicago. People who aren't flying until later in the year can wait to make an appointment. Air travelers are also allowed to bring an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, to get through security checkpoints, according to the TSA. A list of alternative forms of identification that will be accepted at security checkpoints can be found on the TSA's website here. Texas resident Donna Barron made sure to secure her Real ID before boarding a flight at Dallas' Love Field airport. "I'm prepared," she told CBS News Texas. "It's my first time going through, so I'm very interested to see how it's going to go." The TSA said it's seeing about 81% Real ID-compliance at airports, but has encouraged travelers to show up early to avoid delays. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, during a congressional panel on Tuesday, said that air travelers who haven't yet secured a Real ID will still be able to fly, although they may face extra security hurdles. Such travelers "may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step," Noem said, according to the Associated Press. "You need to get there three hours ahead of your departure time for the domestic flight for this extra level of security," AAA senior manager Robert Sinclair told CBS News New York. Sneak peek: The Depraved Heart Murder Why Hegseth is calling for cuts to senior ranks across U.S. military Analyzing Trump's announcement of ceasefire with Houthi rebels in Yemen
CBS News
06-05-2025
- CBS News
Airport security upgrades take effect with Real ID deadline
A long-awaited upgrade to airport security finally goes into effect Wednesday across the country. Airlines and security checkpoints will require travelers to have an updated driver's license or identification card with a special symbol. Otherwise, you could face greater scrutiny before being allowed to board. Carrollton resident Donna Barron made sure she before she boarded a flight at Love Field that her driver's license would be acceptable for the return trip. "I'm prepared," said Barron. "It's my first time going through, so I'm very interested to see how it's going to go." Barron and others traveling on domestic commercial flights will be required beginning Thursday to have a yellow star on their state-issued ID or driver's license. That means it's been entered and screened through a national database called Real ID. "These requirements establish consistent government-wide identity verification standards to strengthen international security and prevent fraud," said Patrick Clarke, the Dallas Love Field Spokesperson. The change to Real IDs Real ID has been in the works for more than 20 years. The security change originated after the 9/11 terror attacks, but has been delayed by logistical issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. What if you don't have a Real ID yet? If you don't have the yellow star on your driver's license or state-issued ID, you can still board a light, it will just be a lot harder. "Here's the thing, those who do not present Real ID-compliant documents—they will face additional screening. Who needs that when you're trying to catch a flight," said Clarke. CBS News data found that while 98% of Texans already have a Real ID, 30 other states are still less than 70% in compliance. That could lead to delays at ticket counters and TSA screenings because of those who will face another layer of security. "We are bracing for tomorrow," Clarke said. "We have additional staff at the ready to account for those who may not be ready and in compliance." Those who qualify and need an updated license in Texas can order one online as long as it's not expired. Love Field said a US passport will also be accepted when the security standard takes effect.
