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.

Airport and security officials reported "smooth" operations on Wednesday when passengers were first required to have an updated REAL ID to fly.

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

Ahead of Homeland Security Sec. Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield Wednesday — the same day Real ID requirements begin at U.S. airports — Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias had some harsh words to share.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem came to Springfield to criticize Illinois’ ‘sanctuary’ immigration policies.

U.S. Homeland Security Kristi Noem will be in Springfield Wednesday, where she will hold a news conference in front of the Governor's Mansion, and Gov. JB Pritzker's office announced her impending arrival with scathing mockery the night before.