The head of Homeland Security says travelers who aren’t REAL ID compliant by the upcoming deadline this week will still be able to fly but should be prepared for extra scrutiny.

After years of delays, the REAL ID deadline officially arrived, and travelers across the country are navigating new rules and last-minute surprises.

Lines moved quickly and exceptions were made for travelers without their upgraded driver's licenses or other valid identification documents, which were technically required for air travel starting Wednesday, following a 20-year roll-out by the U.S. government.