Starting this Wednesday, you won't be allowed to board your plane without this requirement.

The United States will implement a measure that has already caused long lines, confusion, and more than one complaint on social media.

If you have a flight booked this week and haven't checked your wallet yet, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise at the airport. Starting Wednesday, May 7, authorities will implement a rule that has been in the works for nearly two decades and will finally go into effect without further extensions.

This is the requirement to carry identification that meets the new federal standards. Although most citizens have known this for years, many have yet to complete the process. Others have preferred to avoid it for economic or practical reasons, opting instead to use a passport or another form of valid document.

The requirement, established in the law passed after the September 11, 2001, attacks, has been postponed several times. But this time, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have confirmed that there will be no going back. Starting May 7, a regular driver's license will no longer be sufficient to board a domestic flight in the United States.

What is REAL ID and why is it mandatory now?

The REAL ID is a state license or identification card that meets federal security criteria. It is distinguished by a star in the upper right corner and can only be obtained by presenting a combination of official documents that prove identity, residency, and legal status in the country.

The stated goal is to prevent the use of false documents to pass through security checkpoints at airports and federal buildings. Those without one will be required to present a passport or other valid TSA-approved identification.

Some travelers have chosen to continue using their passports for flights within the United States, while others plan to wait until their current license expires. “I wasn't in a hurry; I prefer to use the passport I already have,” said Kelsey, interviewed by Fox News at the Washington airport. Another passenger, Lisa, explained that she didn't apply for a REAL ID for one simple reason: “It was an extra cost, and I preferred to invest that money in renewing my passport.”

What happens if you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID?

Passengers who fail to comply could be subject to additional screening, face delays, or even be banned from their flights. The TSA has already warned that not all cases will be resolved immediately. According to an official cited by Forbes, there is no guarantee of passing the checkpoint if one of the accepted documents is not presented.

Valid alternatives include: U.S. passport, passport card, Global Entry credential, permanent resident card (green card), Canadian driver's license, military IDs, and other specific federal documents.

Many DMVs are overwhelmed. Some states have extended hours, but not all offer service on weekends. In California, for example, wait times can exceed three hours, according to reports reported by local media. Even so, the federal government insists the date will not be moved.

It's not mandatory for everyone... yet

Having a REAL ID isn't mandatory if you don't plan to fly or enter federal facilities that require it. However, those who postpone their travels must carry a passport whenever they travel domestically. In states like Michigan, New York, and Washington, you can also obtain an "enhanced ID," which allows you to cross borders by land or sea into Canada and Mexico, although it doesn't replace a passport for air travel.

Just days before the law goes into effect, many regret not having filed the application in time. Others simply refuse to participate in what they consider unnecessary interference. "I don't travel enough to bother with that," said Victoria, from Arizona.

But the clock is ticking. And countdown screens have already been installed at airports, along with printed leaflets that clearly warn: starting May 7, without this identification, your trip may be grounded.