The TSA's enforcement of the new Real ID requirement varies from airport to airport. The TSA said it is "actively managing wait times and prioritizing operational flexibility. As such, screening procedures will be tailored to each individual airport."
The Real ID requirement went into effect on May 7. The TSA's announcement on April 15 that it wouldn't take a phased approach to enforcement led to warnings by some airports of potentially long screening lines.
Thus far, the rollout has been mostly smooth, in part because enforcement has been measured. Individuals who do not have a Real ID or another compliant document such as a passport or a Global Entry card, still are subject to being directed to a separate area for additional screening. But TSA officers are also empowered to simply warn flyers that they need a Real ID before letting them access the security line with noncompliant identification. In many cases, TSA agents have given travelers leaflets explaining that in the future they'll need a Real ID, before allowing them into the line.
"We recognize that we are approaching a busy summer travel season -- TSA will fully enforce Real ID effectively and efficiently," a TSA spokesperson said. "Each airport will be focused on enforcement of the law and core security responsibilities. They will also maintain operational flexibility to ensure we are actively managing wait times and carrying out a seamless process."