Deadline for REAL ID approaches, causing travelers' panic and perplexity. Here's what you need to know.
In a rush to adjust to new rules, multiple Americans, like New Jersey resident Lauren Mills, are vying to get updated driver's licenses within the next 30 days. The reason? The Department of Homeland Security is enforcing the long-awaited "REAL ID" deadline on May 7, 2023. This implementation, originally recommended by the 9/11 Commission to enhance identification security, has been a slow-moving process since its enactment in 2005 by Congress.
As the Transportation Security Administration, a DHS aviation security agency, clarifies, these "REAL ID state-issued identification cards" signify a significant improvement in identity verification, crucial for transportation security. However, the pending deadline has many would-be travelers worried, with words like "panicking" and "race" being tossed around, similar to the scramble for toilet paper during the pandemic.
Mills shares the sentiments, struggling to secure a REAL ID appointment in New Jersey due to the limited availability. In a twist of fate, minutes after speaking with CNN, she finally spotted eight REAL ID appointments popping up on the state's Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) website—a sight she hadn't seen before. Unfortunately, these appointments vanished as swiftly as sought-after concert tickets.
Confusion reigns as residents attempt to understand who needs a REAL ID, what's required to obtain one, and how quickly they can get a new ID now that the May 7, 2023, deadline is looming. While those without REAL IDs can still drive with their current licenses and use them in other scenarios, these IDs will become essential for boarding domestic flights for travelers without a valid passport, passport card, or approved identification.
With the surge in demand causing lengthy wait times at DMVs, some states, like Pennsylvania, are extending their opening hours to cater to the influx of applicants. Although some permanent licenses issued in states like Georgia since 2012 are already REAL ID compliant, many residents are unaware of this fact, leading to unnecessary stress and visits to licensing centers.
To avoid potential delays at airport security checkpoints, all air travelers aged 18 and older are urged to secure proper identification by May 7, 2025. The final rule published in January allows for flexibility in enforcing the REAL ID requirements, considering factors like security, operational risk, and public impact. But rest assured; the REAL ID deadline itself remains unchanged.
In the face of this demanding situation, it is essential to stay informed about the specific requirements and documentation needed in your state. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles for precise instructions and any additional state-specific requirements to ensure a smooth REAL ID application process.
- Pennsylvanians, like many other Americans, are worried about the upcoming deadline for obtaining a REAL ID, which is on May 7, 2025.
- Amidst inconsistencies and confusion about who needs a REAL ID and how to obtain one, some states, such as Pennsylvania, have extended their license issuance hours to serve the growing number of applicants.
- In order to avoid delayed screening at airport security checkpoints, it is crucial for all air travelers aged 18 and above to secure a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, ensuring they are compliant with the REAL ID requirements.
