AVOCA, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Beginning today, you will need a Real ID to get into some government buildings and to pass through airport security.
But what if you still don't have one?
28/22 News asked that very question for travelers at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
After years of delays, the Real ID enforcement is here.
“Hearing it on the radio and the TV, trying to get everyone prepared, I guess,” said Timothy Green of Florida.
Signs all over the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport alert travelers of the new rules, with many cooperating.
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“It seems like Northeast Pennsylvania travelers are very savvy. We had about a 98% compliance with either the Real ID, or another form of passport or military ID,” explained Mark Bailer, director of public safety at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport.
“I have my Global Travelers card with me. My Real ID on my driver’s license didn’t come through, I’m due to renew next month, so I thought I’ll get it then,” said Ro Hume of Scranton.
Despite the previous TSA mandate stating you must have one to fly, those without a Real ID are still able to get through security.
“They’re still able to get through, there’s just an enhanced security procedure when they get searched going through security,” explained Bailer.
To help with first-day reinforcement, cards were handed out to travelers.
Before heading to security, you’re going to get a red or green card. Red meaning ‘Real ID’ and green meaning ‘non-compliant. Then you hand off your card to be pointed in the right direction.
Lines for pre-check, another for Real ID, and a third for those without a Real ID, or a second form, are separated at TSA to help with crowd control.
One traveler we spoke to says it’s easier to get the Real ID so you don’t have to worry.
“Just make sure you get to the DMV, you have your proper documents before you go to ensure that you can get your proper ID, but it really is just a quick trip to the DMV,” said Kaitlin Sickle of Kingston.
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport officials say the red and green card procedure will only be temporary.
