The Transportation Security Administration will begin enforcing the requirement to fly with a Real ID beginning May 7.
Tampa International Airport spokesperson Joshua Gillin said officials are not phasing in this requirement.
He said the airport has been advertising the Real ID requirement for years and will make a bigger push leading up to the enforcement deadline.
"The Trump administration is enforcing a deadline that has actually been pushed back several times over the years and TPA has been trying to educate the public about this upcoming requirement,” Gillin said.
The Real ID Act was passed in 2005, but the enforcement deadline has been pushed back multiple times over the last two decades.
Lawmakers passed the act after findings from the 9-11 Commission showed it was too easy to get a state ID.
Tampa airport officials are increasing signage and will host an awareness campaign closer to the deadline.
“We really want our travelers coming in and going out to be very aware of that deadline so they don’t run into any issues,” he said.
ALSO READ: What you need to know as the May 7 Real ID deadline approaches
If travelers do not have a Real ID, they should bring a valid passport or other form of identification to the airport.
While Florida boasts a 99% compliance rate, other states are much lower.
While almost all Floridians will get through security with these new IDs, Gillin said delays may be caused by out-of-state travelers who have not yet complied with the Real ID Act.
Specifically, he’s concerned someone will travel to Tampa International Airport without a Real ID before the May 7 deadline and not have that new ID when they try to return home after the deadline.
TSA Regional Spokesperson Mark Howell said the law is being enforced now because enough people have complied by getting a Real ID.
"We shouldn't see any major impact to the overall operation at security checkpoints, but for those that don't and aren't prepared with a Real ID or another acceptable form of ID, they may see some lengthy delays,” Howell said
If a traveler doesn’t have a Real ID, they will be subject to additional security screenings at airports after May 7.
To get a Real ID, Floridians should visit their local driver license service center or tax collector office. Residents should make an appointment ahead of time and bring proper documentation to their appointment.
