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NewMexicoConservativeNews.com reports that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared for Memorial Day weekend travel. From Thursday, May 22, until Wednesday, May 28, TSA expects to screen about 18 million passengers and crew.
“TSA is ready for the additional passenger volume, and we look forward to welcoming families traveling during this peak period,” said TSA Acting Administrator Ha McNeill. “As a friendly reminder, to ensure a smooth screening experience, bring acceptable forms of ID like your REAL ID.”
Since implementing REAL ID on May 7, 93% of passengers are presenting a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, such as a passport. Passengers 18 and older are required to present a TSA accepted form of identification at TSA checkpoints.
TSA offers the following tips for our infrequent flyers:
- Pack Smart: Ensure your carry-on bags are organized and comply with TSA regulations. If not sure, text 275-872 (“AskTSA”) or @AskTSA.
- Have Valid ID: Bring your REAL ID or an acceptable form of identification and have it out to show the officer. Those who have neither a state-issued REAL ID nor an acceptable form of ID can pass through security after their identity is verified, but they may be subject to additional screening.
- Enroll in TSA PreCheck®: Children 17 and under can join an adult with TSA PreCheck when TSA PreCheck appears on the child’s boarding pass.
The holiday weekend kicks off the summer travel season, which represents a sustained period of higher passenger volumes until Labor Day weekend in September. For more detailed information on preparing for airport security screening, visit tsa.gov.
Real ID Facts: A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. It’s designed to be a federally accepted form of identification for various purposes like accessing federal facilities and boarding domestic flights. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID with a gold star is required for domestic air travel.
The REAL ID Act was enacted in response to recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to improve the security of identification documents.
Impact on Travelers: Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers who do not have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative may face delays or be denied access to TSA security checkpoints and/or certain federal facilities.
States and REAL ID: All states have issued REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards, according to the TSA.
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Replies
John Baake
Neighbor
5-22-2025 7:32am
Many states including New Mexico have discouraged their residents from obtaining a Real ID by charging substantially more than a "Standard ID".
New Mexico charges an additional $18 for a Real ID, doubling the cost of a license or ID here.
Other states charge up to $90 or more for a Real ID.
New Mexico does offer a discount for license's and Id's to low income people, those whose income is less than 200% of the federal poverty level.
I disagree with this
This is unverified
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tom mitchell
Neighbor
5-22-2025 9:39am
question for you - do you know when the requirement for "real id" came about?
2005 was when the dept of homeland security was established - right in the middle of the bush/cheney regime....we took a giant step toward becoming a police state - and dear leader is working towards even more "big brother".
John Baake
Neighbor
5-22-2025 10:14am
The dept. of Homeland Security was established in 2002, and became active in 2003. The requirement for Real ID was started in 2005.
The Patriot Act, the legislation to which you referred, was passed with nearly unanimous support in both the house and senate, it would've became law regardless of which party controlled the house, senate, or White house at the time. President Obama was the last president to approve an extension of it.
Tessalena Johnson
Neighbor
5-24-2025 9:49pm
Not sure where you got your information, but it's completely false. The cost for an ID/Driver's License (regardless whether it's the "Real" ID or not) is the same price in New Mexico. It is not double. I just got my "Real" ID a few months ago and it cost $18 for 4 years, so not sure why you think it's an additional $18 on top of that because it is not.
John Baake
Neighbor
5-26-2025 5:04am
I found that information on a state website.
I'm happy to see that it was either wrong to begin with, or at least outdated.
Thank you for sharing your information, I'm glad to be wrong on that one.
