TSA offers REAL ID reminders as requirement approaches

CHICAGO (WGN) — Travelers at Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway international airports will see additional signage and information about REAL ID as the May 7 requirement approaches.

The REAL ID is part of the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 after recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. It is meant to create minimum security standards for driver’s licenses and ID cards.

After May 7, most travelers will need a REAL ID to fly domestically and enter certain federal facilities. Residents of Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York or Vermont will be able to use their enhanced driver’s license instead of a REAL ID.

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The date of May 7 was specifically chosen due to historically lower travel numbers in the weeks before Memorial Day travel.

In addition to extra airport signage, security officials said they’re also pushing information and reminders out on social media. Additional personnel will be on hand at airports once the requirement takes effect.

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“Passengers without a REAL ID after that date can expect delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted to enter the security checkpoint,” Transportation Security Administration spokesman Jim Spriggs said, indicating that there may be some leniency at first with the changes.

Residents who’ve recently applied for REAL ID and have only the temporary paper ID but not the actual card will likely be subjected to additional screening.