New ID Rules Start at O'Hare: Mixed Reactions and Long Waits

The new ID rules for flying domestically began on a Wednesday, after a long delay of 17 years. The change was barely noticeable at O'Hare Airport, with short security lines and most travelers having the right ID. However, not everyone was pleased with the new rules. One traveler, Bonnie Kern, was frustrated. She had spent hours at the DMV to get her Real ID but only received a temporary paper ID. Airport security did not accept this temporary ID, sending her to a special line for extra checks. Despite her frustration, she breezed through security without any additional screening. The new ID rules, known as Real ID, were recommended after the 9/11 attacks to make IDs harder to fake. The program was supposed to start in 2008 but was delayed for over a decade. Many people rushed to get Real IDs when the May 7 deadline was announced. Illinois has been working hard to issue more Real IDs. The Secretary of State's office added more appointment slots and even opened a new "supercenter" in downtown. However, there have been long lines and wait times at DMVs. The Secretary of State urged people to only make appointments if they needed to fly by the deadline. The new ID rules will affect more than just flying. Real IDs will also be needed to enter certain federal buildings. However, they are not required for driving. Many travelers at O'Hare had passports, which are also acceptable for flying. The first day of the new ID rules was smooth, partly because it was a day with fewer passengers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) performed random extra checks on passengers without the right ID. This was to keep the process unpredictable and prevent people from taking advantage of the system. The Secretary of State criticized the federal government's messaging around the new ID rules. He said it caused "pure panic" among residents. Despite the criticism, the new ID rules are here to stay, and travelers will need to be prepared.