Real ID Deadline Arrives After Two Decades of Delays | JQJO

After two decades, the Real ID Act's deadline is here. The act, passed in 2005 following 9/11, aims to standardize state-issued IDs to prevent counterfeiting. Implementation faced resistance due to costs, privacy concerns, and varying state approaches. While most states now offer Real ID-compliant licenses, millions haven't upgraded. The new deadline impacts air travel, particularly for undocumented immigrants, as some states issue licenses regardless of immigration status. This two-tier system is facing criticism and potential penalties from the federal government.