New travel rules, same confusion: What do 18-year-olds need to know today
As the month of May kicks off the start of the U.S. summer travel season, college campuses across the country are buzzing with excitement as students prepare to close their laptops, submit finals, and stream off campus for a well-deserved break. However, this year, some students may find themselves facing an unexpected obstacle at the airport due to a federal ID rule that is taking effect just as school’s out.
The Department of Homeland Security set the enforcement date for REAL ID on May 7th, a law that has been in the works for nearly two decades. Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, but the implementation has been delayed multiple times. With the deadline falling right after the end of the spring semester, there is concern that many students may be caught off guard by the new requirements.
“We have tens of thousands of folks weekly that are showing up at our driver’s license centers to get the REAL ID,” Pennsylvania Transportation Secretary Michael Carroll explained at a recent press conference. “It’s a real challenge for us right now, because folks have waited until the last minute.”
On college campuses, the excitement of first-year students sharing their summer plans is palpable. Many students are looking forward to packing a carry-on, grabbing friends, and heading to the beach for some much-needed relaxation. However, for those who do not have a REAL ID or are unsure about what the law entails, this update could pose significant barriers to summer travel.
Some students, like junior Riley Davis from the University of Alabama, were prepared and obtained a REAL ID-compliant license earlier this year. Davis shared that she first heard about REAL ID on social media and found the process of getting her new license to be quick and easy.
For many college freshmen, the process of obtaining a REAL ID may be more challenging. With many students turning 18 during their first year of college, they may have only recently become eligible for a REAL ID. It is unclear how many college-aged Americans are currently in compliance with the requirements, with compliance rates varying from state to state.
For those who are not prepared to meet the REAL ID requirements, they may face long lines and wait times at the DMV before they can fly domestically. Appointments to obtain a REAL ID are filling up fast in many states, with some residents struggling to secure a slot before the deadline.
Despite the challenges, some students, like sophomore Garrett McDonalds from Auburn University, have successfully obtained their REAL IDs ahead of the deadline. McDonalds described the process as smooth and is looking forward to an easier flying experience in the future.
As the May 7th deadline approaches, TSA agents have warned that individuals without REAL IDs will be subject to additional screening at the airport. It is essential for travelers to prepare for additional time at the airport and ensure they have the necessary documentation for their flights.
Overall, the implementation of the REAL ID Act has created a sense of urgency among college students as they navigate the new requirements for domestic travel. While the process may be challenging, being prepared and informed can help ensure a smooth travel experience for all.
