Some Tennessee REAL ID driver's licenses are failing to scan at TSA facial-recognition checkpoints, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security has confirmed, leading to delays and repeated verification attempts for affected travelers. State officials describe it as affecting a "small number" of licenses, though some frequent flyers dispute that characterization.

What's causing it

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security said in a statement: "We are aware that a small number of driver licenses are not being read by TSA... Anyone who experiences this problem can visit a Driver Services Center and receive a replacement license at no cost." A TSA agent cited by local outlets suggested the issue may stem from black-and-white portrait photos that are too light for scanners to read properly — though this explanation has not been formally confirmed by TSA.

Disputed scope

State officials call the problem rare, but at least one Nashville-based frequent flyer has reported being rescanned on multiple trips, citing a TSA agent who described the issue as common. TSA has not published data on how many Tennessee IDs are affected.

What travelers can do

  • Visit any Tennessee Driver Services Center for a free replacement license if your ID has failed to scan.
  • Carry a valid passport as a backup form of ID at airport security.
  • Build in extra time at the checkpoint in case additional verification is needed.
  • Replacement licenses typically take 10-20 days to arrive after being printed.