For Some Americans, REAL ID Raises Privacy Concerns

Several state-level politicians are calling for their states to backtrack on the system.

Passengers at a security checkpoint at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, on May 7, 2025. Scott Olson/Getty Images

The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) has hailed the first months requiring REAL ID for domestic air travel a great success.

Almost 94 percent of air travelers presented a REAL ID, “or another acceptable form of ID” to board commercial airliners since May 7, according to an email from the TSA.