What happens if you don’t have your REAL I.D. before airport travel?

MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- The REAL I.D. deadline is May 7th, and many in Salinas are taking care of last-minute appointments at the DMV before the federal enforcement takes effect. Starting tomorrow, airports will require a REAL ID when traveling. 

“If you plan on traveling, we need your help to prevent delays. Get a REAL ID." 

Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, says people should expect delays if they fly without a REAL ID. Some, like Bertha Barajas, feel these measures are done for a reason. 

“Well, if the government makes these requirements, they must have their reasons,” Barajas says it is everyone’s responsibility to comply. 

She visits the DMV today to make the switch while renewing her license. Barajas, like others, waited for their license to expire before making the change. Others, like Enrique Garcia, fear not having a REAL ID may keep them from traveling.  

“Yes, I think I will apply for my REAL I.D. I can now use it when I fly. What if they don’t let me back into the country next time I travel?”

Garcia says he will likely make the switch since having a REAL ID will make the process easier. Ignacio Torres agrees. “Who doesn’t carry their wallet?” he says. These changes will also apply to electronic licenses. The California Department of Motor Vehicles says, “Those who do not have a REAL ID can comfortably wait to upgrade when their driver’s license is due for renewal. In the meantime, they can use a federally accepted document, like a valid passport or permanent resident card, to fly domestically.” 

If you haven't yet requested your REAL ID by tomorrow's deadline, you might face delays when traveling or going through TSA.

Still, you can use another form of ID, like your passport, and continue the process for your REAL ID.