LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Despite the federal deadline requiring REAL ID-compliant identification for domestic air travel by May 7, Homeland Security officials confirmed that travelers without the updated licenses will still be allowed to fly—after additional screening.

The announcement came as long lines formed outside government buildings in major cities and state offices extended hours to meet the surge in last-minute applicants, according to the Associated Press.

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“We will make sure it’s as seamless as possible,” Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said during a congressional hearing on May 6. “People will be allowed to fly.”

REAL ID-compliant licenses display a star in the corner and are issued through state motor vehicle agencies. Other forms of identification, such as passports and tribal IDs, remain valid alternatives at TSA checkpoints.

Thomas Carter, TSA’s Federal Security Director in New Jersey, said passengers without a REAL ID should arrive early and be prepared for enhanced screening procedures.

 “I think there’s that self-responsibility of the law that they need to know, give themselves that extra time, and if they do that, they shouldn’t have an issue,” Carter said.

Noem has defended the program in public service messages, saying the new standards are about national safety.

 “These IDs keep our country safe,” she said.

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REAL ID was first signed into law in 2005 after a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission, but its implementation has been delayed multiple times over nearly two decades. 

As of this week, it is officially in effect.