The nationwide Real ID mandate for domestic flights began May 7th, but the rollout was smoother than anticipated. While passengers without Real IDs or alternative identification like passports faced extra security checks, wait times at O'Hare remained minimal. Although 81% of travelers nationwide have compliant IDs, Illinois lags behind. Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias criticized the federal government's messaging, claiming it caused unnecessary panic, despite the fact that flying without a Real ID is still permissible for two years with additional screening.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.