The May 3, 2025 deadline for Real ID-compliant identification for domestic flights passed with minimal enforcement despite an estimated 20% of the traveling public lacking compliant identification. The Trump administration's approach is criticized as prioritizing immigration enforcement over national security.
The administration's actions are interpreted as prioritizing immigration enforcement, using the Real ID deadline to pressure undocumented immigrants. The lack of strict enforcement is seen as a calculated move, rather than a genuine effort to enhance national security.
The weak enforcement undermines public trust and the seriousness of future deadlines. Concerns about privacy and federal overreach, already raised by civil libertarians, are further amplified by this approach. This lack of proper enforcement casts doubt on the effectiveness of the overall Real ID program.
Enacted after 9/11, Real ID aimed to enhance passenger screening with enhanced security features on state-issued driver’s licenses. Original implementation faced delays, and the current administration's approach deviates from the program's initial intent.
Critics argue that the administration's focus on immigration control instead of national security undermines the program's purpose. The perceived use of Real ID as a tool to pressure undocumented immigrants is seen as counterproductive and raises concerns about civil liberties.