New Jersey Rolls Out REAL ID Emergency Appointments as Airports Sound the Alarm

Tick-tock, travelers: The deadline for having a REAL ID to fly within the U.S. is May 7, and if you haven't updated your ID yet, you might want to hustle. After that date, you’ll need a REAL ID or another acceptable document—think valid U.S. passport, Global Entry card, Department of Defense ID, or permanent resident card—to get through TSA for domestic flights.

In New Jersey, demand for these fancy new IDs has been so wild that the state DMV’s website was showing a big fat zero appointments available for days at a time. But don’t panic just yet: the state has introduced a "REAL ID Emergency Issuance Program" for folks who have urgent travel plans or emergencies within 14 days and lack proper ID. Starting Thursday, if you qualify, you can snag one of these coveted emergency appointments—but be ready to cough up $80 for expedited shipping. Speed comes at a price, apparently.

Latrecia Littles-Floyd, Acting Chief Administrator at NJMVC, says they've ramped up efforts to handle the rush, including this emergency program. The initiative will stick around even after the May 7 deadline, but it’s only for a limited number of people who meet strict criteria.

It’s not just Jersey feeling the heat—DMVs all over the country are scrambling to meet demand, rolling out extra appointment hours and even Saturday events. Meanwhile, airlines and airports are flooding social media with reminders that you’ll need a REAL ID or one of those alternative documents, or you could be left behind at security. Tampa International Airport put it bluntly: "Heads up, travelers! Check your ID now." LaGuardia’s asking if you’ve got your REAL ID yet, and United Airlines is dropping heavy hints to plan ahead or risk getting stuck at TSA.

Delta says they’ll do their best to rebook anyone who misses a flight for extenuating circumstances, but no promises if you show up with the wrong ID. The TSA, for their part, is promising there will be no last-minute extensions this time—come May 7, the new rules are set in stone.