Iowa's Real ID holdouts face waits, extra screening
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Starting Wednesday, you'll need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building quickly — and if you don't have one yet, buckle up for a wait.
Why it matters: The federal Real ID requirement is finally kicking in after years of delays.
- While just over 76% of Iowa drivers are already compliant, thousands are still scrambling to make the cut.
- You can use a valid passport instead of a Real ID at the airport, but nearly 60% of Iowans don't have one, according to the Center for American Progress.
How it works: Real ID standardizes U.S. identification rather than accepting state-specific driver's licenses.
- Compliant IDs are typically marked with a star in the upper right corner, like Iowa's, though the specific design may vary by state.
State of play: As of Tuesday, people could board domestic flights with a license that is not a Real ID, but starting today, a Real ID, passport or similar document is needed.
- You can still board a plane without a Real ID, but you will need to undergo additional screening and face potential delays, according to Des Moines International Airport.
- Those who lack an identification that complies "may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step" but ultimately will be able to fly for now, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem told a congressional panel Tuesday.
What they're saying: Iowa is ahead of the national 61% Real ID rate because the state started issuing them in 2013, years before many other states, Kathleen Meradith-Eyers, director of the Iowa Department of Transportation's motor division, tells Axios.
What we're watching: More than 2 million Iowans already have their Real ID, but appointments for those who don't are nearly two months out at some driver's license stations.
- The earliest online appointment available yesterday at the Polk County Place station was June 30.
The other side: DOT staff members try to accommodate walk-in appointments when possible and frequently open additional time slots when staffing is available.
- The DOT served 20,000 people at its license centers last week, up more than 40% from the typical 14,000, Meradith-Eyers said.
Bottom line: If you're not Real ID-ready, your summer travel plans may have hiccups.
🍩 One sweet thing to go: Krispy Kreme is offering a free glazed doughnut Wednesday in recognition of the Real ID rush.
- No Real ID compliance is required to ride on the free KK train.