07-05-2025
Iowa's Real ID holdouts face waits, extra screening
Starting Wednesday, you'll need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building quickly — and if you don't have one yet, buckle up for a wait.
Why it matters: The federal Real ID requirement is finally kicking in after years of delays.
While just over 76% of Iowa drivers are already compliant, thousands are still scrambling to make the cut.
You can use a valid passport instead of a Real ID at the airport, but nearly 60% of Iowans don't have one, according to the Center for American Progress.
How it works: Real ID standardizes U.S. identification rather than accepting state-specific driver's licenses.
Compliant IDs are typically marked with a star in the upper right corner, like Iowa's, though the specific design may vary by state.
State of play: As of Tuesday, people could board domestic flights with a license that is not a Real ID, but starting today, a Real ID, passport or similar document is needed.
You can still board a plane without a Real ID, but you will need to undergo additional screening and face potential delays, according to Des Moines International Airport.
Those who lack an identification that complies "may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step" but ultimately will be able to fly for now, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told a congressional panel Tuesday.
What they're saying: Iowa is ahead of the national 61% Real ID rate because the state started issuing them in 2013, years before many other states, Kathleen Meradith-Eyers, director of the Iowa Department of Transportation's motor division, tells Axios.
What we're watching: More than 2 million Iowans already have their Real ID, but appointments for those who don't are nearly two months out at some driver's license stations.
The earliest online appointment available yesterday at the Polk County Place station was June 30.
The other side: DOT staff members try to accommodate walk-in appointments when possible and frequently open additional time slots when staffing is available.
The DOT served 20,000 people at its license centers last week, up more than 40% from the typical 14,000, Meradith-Eyers said.
Bottom line: If you're not Real ID-ready, your summer travel plans may have hiccups.
