Rejecting REAL ID Could Mean Stiffer Security At Airports
New Hampshire, Maine Travelers May Face Secondary Security Checks
Starting on May 11, the federal government will be enforcing the REAL ID program, a set of strict rules surrounding the issuing of photo identification, such as driver's licenses. While 45 states have agreed to go along with the program, New Hampshire and Maine are among those who haven't.
Residents of states that don't comply may find themselves the focus of a second screening at airports.
"Secondary screening means you'll be pulled aside for a pat down and your bags will be opened before you can get on board the aircraft," said Mark Brewer, director of Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.
Because New Hampshire has not joined REAL ID, Granite State residents will need to show a military ID or passport to avoid the second security search. Residents said they weren't happy to have to go through the additional step.