Americans weigh in on REAL ID rollout after 2005 law finally takes effect
As travelers prepare for their flights at the Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, many have shared their thoughts on the implementation of the REAL ID law that took effect on May 7. According to Fox News Digital, several travelers expressed their satisfaction with the government’s efforts to notify Americans about the new requirement, with many believing that it will enhance safety and security measures.
“I think they did a great job of letting people know… and I think it’s important, because we need to make sure that everyone’s got correct identification,” one man shared from the terminal. Another traveler added, “I think that the government did a really good job of informing the public that it’s needed. I see it everywhere.”
The REAL ID laws, which require a federally-compliant driver’s license or other identification that meets higher standards than state-issued driver’s licenses, were officially implemented on May 7. While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Americans without the new ID would still be allowed to travel, they would face additional screening.
Only legal U.S. citizens or residents are eligible to obtain a REAL ID, although valid U.S. passports can still be used as an alternative for domestic air travel. “I think the government did a great job preparing for folks, and especially in the state of Georgia. They’ve had this in process for a long time,” another traveler expressed.
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as a response to the 9/11 attacks, aiming to enhance security requirements for driver’s licenses. While some states began complying with the law over a decade ago, enforcement in all states was delayed multiple times due to the pandemic, DMV backlogs, and states like South Carolina initially refusing to comply.
“We’ve been doing it since, gosh … since 2013. Trying to get everybody aboard, and this is the last year for them to get on board,” a woman shared. Another traveler emphasized the importance of higher security measures, stating, “I think it’s important to protect our airports, one another, and our federal buildings with higher security.”
Despite the positive feedback from many travelers, some believe that the rollout of the REAL ID law could have been smoother. “They could have rolled this out a little more smoothly and allowed people to get more prepared. Even though it’s been in the works for a couple of years, I travel quite often, and I didn’t know,” one traveler expressed.
In conclusion, as the REAL ID laws take effect at airports nationwide, travelers are reminded to ensure they have the necessary identification for their flights. The government’s efforts to inform the public about the new requirement have been praised by many, although there are still areas for improvement in the implementation process.
