Senator Demands TSA Plan as REAL ID Enforcement Nears Amid Widespread Traveler Unpreparedness

The top Democrat on the Senate Homeland Security Committee, Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed, is pressing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for clarity on how the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) plans to handle potential chaos as REAL ID requirements become mandatory starting May 7.

After years of delays and pandemic-related postponements, the enforcement of the Bush-era REAL ID Act of 2005 — designed to set minimum security standards for driver’s licenses and IDs used for domestic air travel — finally has a concrete start date. But with an estimated 20 percent of air travelers still lacking compliant identification, concerns about travelers being stranded or stuck at security checkpoints are rising.

Reed’s letter reminds Secretary Noem that President Trump granted the Department of Homeland Security discretion over the enforcement timing, recognizing the complicated logistics states face updating DMV systems across all 50 states, seven territories, and the District of Columbia. Yet, the clock is ticking, and millions have yet to acquire REAL ID-compliant credentials or alternatives like passports or military IDs.

The senator cited Secretary Noem’s public commitment that no traveler should face boarding delays. He pressed for details on what measures TSA will deploy to avoid disruptions, especially for those arriving without compliant ID at airport security.

This demand comes amid historic bipartisan debates over REAL ID: while it had supporters praising stronger security measures, others viewed it as an overreach threatening privacy and freedom, with critics dubbing it part of an expanding "Big Brother" surveillance network. Interestingly, skepticism comes from all sides, including figures like Rep. Thomas Massie, who recently warned against expecting REAL ID to guarantee election integrity.

Responding to such concerns, DHS contends that REAL ID is not a national ID nor a federal database but a consistent security standard, with states retaining control over their issued licenses and records. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin highlighted that 81% of travelers already hold compliant or acceptable identification and assured that efforts will continue to educate the public and ease burden at checkpoints.

As the deadline looms, it’s clear the readiness gap poses a real challenge — not just bureaucratically but for everyday Americans hoping to catch flights without a hitch. Whether TSA can pull off a smooth transition without major headaches remains to be seen. Airlines and airports will certainly be on high alert that first week of May.

Fox News’ Elizabeth Elkind and Deirdre Heavey contributed to this report.