The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, will finally require Americans to present REAL ID-compliant identification cards to board domestic flights starting May 7. The act aims to close security gaps in identification processes to prevent terrorist exploitation.
Key Points
REAL ID Act passed in 2005
Requires verification of key documents and enhanced security features
Implementation delayed but now effective from May 7
Pros
Enhanced security measures to prevent terrorist exploitation
Standardization of identification processes across states
Cons
Concerns about privacy and data security
Controversial as some see it as a 'national ID card'