Most Pennsylvanians lack passports as Real ID is enforced
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Nearly half the country, and an even higher percentage of Pennsylvanians, may need Real IDs to board domestic flights starting today.
Why it matters: After years of delays, the Real ID deadline appears to be finally, actually happening — and it could cause chaos at airports this week even after tons of warnings from the government, airlines, etc.
The big picture: Congress passed the Real ID Act back in 2005 to beef up aviation security post-9/11, but the deadline for actually requiring compliant ID cards has been repeatedly delayed.
- Now that it's happening, Americans without a passport or a few other acceptable documents will need a Real ID to board domestic flights.
Zoom in: About 54% of Pennsylvanians lack a valid passport as of fiscal year 2024, per estimates from the Center for American Progress.
- Only about 28% of Pennsylvanians have received Real IDs, PennDOT told Axios last week.
Zoom out: Nearly 47% of Americans lack a valid passport.
- Neighboring West Virginia (79.3%) has the greatest share of citizens lacking a passport, while another neighbor, New Jersey (20.1%), has the smallest.
Yes, but: Many Americans don't fly regularly or at all, so they may have no immediate need for a Real ID.
- Most states, like Pennsylvania, do not require Real IDs, so it is up to residents to acquire them if they want to fly or enter some federal buildings without a passport.
- There are alternatives, including "enhanced" driver's licenses meant for international land or sea crossings. (See a full list of options here).
What's next: Passengers without a Real ID or viable alternative may still be allowed to fly once the rule takes effect, but "will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening," per a Transportation Security Administration info page.