On Real ID Eve, Bay Area Airports Say You Can Still Travel With Your Old ID Just With Lots of Extra Hassle

The Real ID law takes effect Wednesday, requiring U. S. travelers to have compliant identification for domestic flights. Travelers can still board with older IDs but will face additional verification steps, according to TSA officials. Those without Real ID or a passport may be diverted to different lines, risking delays of 45 minutes or more, which could lead to missed flights.

Currently, only 48% of Americans possess valid passports, raising concerns about travel disruptions this summer. The California DMV is not accepting appointments for Real IDs, making it difficult for local residents to comply. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced that travelers can still use older IDs but must arrive early to accommodate potential delays. The San Francisco DMV's lack of appointments further complicates the situation, as it is challenging to secure in-person appointments. As authorities prepare for an influx of travelers, additional staffing will help manage the increased verification demands at Bay Area airports.