Time is running out for travelers without a REAL ID.
Starting Wednesday, the Transportation Security Administration will begin enforcing the long-delayed federal requirement, meaning passengers flying out of any U.S. airport, including those in Central Florida, must show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or present another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid passport or military ID.
[Watch video below for latest info on REAL ID]
While Florida is among the most prepared states, boasting a compliance rate of more than 99%, TSA expects confusion and delays for travelers from states lagging behind.
“If you’re planning to travel May 7 and beyond, you need to have a REAL ID, a compliant ID, or another acceptable form of ID,” said TSA spokesperson Mark Howell. “The most common is a U.S. passport.”
The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 following 9/11, but its implementation has been postponed for years due to logistical challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, enforcement is finally here.
Travelers will know if their ID is compliant by checking for a star in the top right corner of their license. No star means no go at the TSA checkpoint—unless another approved form of identification is presented.
At Orlando International Airport, passenger Rienaulti Russell from Alabama said he hasn’t gotten his REAL ID yet due to long wait times at his local DMV.
“At this point, it’s been a lot of traffic at the DMV,” he said. “I’m hoping to get it soon. I like to travel with my family, so we definitely need it.”
Another traveler, Tara Noyes from Missouri, said she got her REAL ID over the summer after moving states. “I had to get a new license anyway, so I just went for it because I knew it was coming,” she said.
With Orlando serving as a major tourist hub, Howell said TSA is preparing for longer lines, especially for travelers unaware of the new requirement.
“Those without a REAL ID will be moved to a separate area for identity verification,” Howell explained. “That process takes time, so we’re advising those passengers to arrive at least three hours early.”
Even though the changes won’t affect passengers who are properly prepared, Howell expects that travelers from low-compliance states could create a ripple effect.
According to TSA, many states still have less than 50% of residents compliant with the REAL ID standard, which could create backups at airports nationwide.
The fastest way to check your ID? Look for the star.
“If you don’t see it, head to the DMV or bring a passport,” Howell said. “And don’t wait—lines are only getting longer.”
TSA encourages travelers to visit their state’s DMV website to ensure they bring the correct documentation to avoid repeat appointments.
REAL ID-compliant licenses feature enhanced security measures designed to prevent tampering, counterfeiting, and identity fraud. “It’s about strengthening the security of our travel system,” Howell added.
As TSA braces for the new rules to take effect, travelers are urged to verify their ID status immediately. If your license lacks the star, bring a passport—or risk missing your flight.
“This is the final call,” Howell said. “We’ve been warning about this for years. Enforcement is here.”