Travelers with no REAL ID can fly for now, Kristi Noem says

Apnews - May 6th, 2025

Travelers who are not compliant with REAL ID requirements by this week's deadline will still be able to fly, though they may face additional scrutiny, according to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Speaking to a Congressional panel, Noem noted that 81% of travelers already have IDs that meet REAL ID standards. She assured that security checkpoints would also accept passports and tribal IDs. Those without compliant IDs might experience some extra steps at security, but Noem emphasized efforts to make the process as smooth as possible.

The REAL ID Act, which was recommended by the 9/11 Commission and became law in 2005, aims to enhance security by standardizing the identification process across states. Its implementation has faced numerous delays over the years. The latest development underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing security protocols with public convenience. The requirement for REAL ID aims to provide a more secure form of identification, reflecting broader security concerns post-9/11 and highlighting the federal government's commitment to improving security measures in public transportation.

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Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and relevant overview of the upcoming REAL ID compliance deadline, which is of significant public interest. It effectively communicates the main points about the requirements and alternatives for travelers. However, the misidentification of Kristi Noem as the head of Homeland Security is a notable inaccuracy that undermines the article's credibility. The lack of diverse perspectives and additional sources limits the depth and balance of the reporting. Despite these shortcomings, the article remains a useful resource for travelers seeking information about REAL ID compliance, though it would benefit from corrections and a broader range of viewpoints.

Accuracy

The story contains several factual claims that align with known information about the REAL ID program. For instance, it accurately states that travelers without REAL ID can still fly, but they may face extra scrutiny. However, the article incorrectly identifies Kristi Noem as the head of Homeland Security, which is a significant inaccuracy since she is the Governor of South Dakota. The claim that 81% of travelers have REAL ID-compliant IDs is plausible but would benefit from verification with official data. The acceptance of passports and tribal identification as alternatives to REAL ID at security checkpoints is accurate and aligns with Homeland Security policies.

Balance

The article primarily presents information from the perspective of Homeland Security, with Kristi Noem’s statements dominating the narrative. It lacks viewpoints from other stakeholders, such as travelers or airline representatives, which could provide a more balanced view of the potential impacts of the REAL ID requirements. The focus is heavily on the procedural aspects of the REAL ID law rather than exploring any criticism or support from different groups, leading to a somewhat one-sided presentation.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and straightforward, with a logical flow of information. It succinctly outlines the main points about the REAL ID requirements and what travelers can expect. However, the misidentification of Kristi Noem could lead to confusion among readers about her role and authority on the subject. The language is neutral and accessible, but the article would benefit from clearer identification of sources and roles.

Source quality

The article relies heavily on statements attributed to Kristi Noem, who is mistakenly identified as the head of Homeland Security. This misidentification raises concerns about the reliability of the source attribution. The lack of additional sources or expert opinions diminishes the credibility and depth of the reporting, as it does not provide a comprehensive view of the issue from multiple authoritative perspectives.

Transparency

The article provides some context about the REAL ID program, including its origins and implementation delays. However, it lacks transparency in explaining the methodology behind the claim that 81% of travelers have REAL ID-compliant IDs. Additionally, the article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or the basis for Kristi Noem's authority on the subject, given her misidentified role.