What You Need To Know About REAL ID Requirements In North Dakota

If you’re planning to travel starting today, buckle up — the REAL ID deadline has officially arrived.

As of now, North Dakota travelers flying within the U.S. will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to pass through airport security. But if you haven’t updated your ID yet, don’t panic — you're not completely grounded.

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You Can Still Fly Without a REAL ID — But Be Ready for Extra Screening, Says Homeland Security

ABC News reported earlier today that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem assured the public on Tuesday that travelers without a REAL ID who are flying domestically on Wednesday and beyond will still be allowed to board their flights — after clearing additional identity checks. That means you can still travel, but there’s a catch: you'll face extra screening, and you should be ready for it.

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is urging travelers without a REAL ID to arrive early and brace for longer lines and more detailed questioning. The goal is to verify your identity using alternative documents and processes, which could slow things down at security checkpoints.

Over the past few weeks, the new ID requirements have sparked a flurry of activity online. Reddit threads and a few local Facebook groups have lit up with questions, concerns, and confusion. Some users have shared their frustrations with long wait times at DMV offices, while others are swapping tips on what backup documents to bring to the airport.

The bottom line: If your ID hasn’t been updated to meet REAL ID standards, you can still fly — for now — but don’t expect it to be as easy as usual. Arrive early, stay patient, and consider updating your ID soon to skip the hassle in the future.