Real ID Rush: States Get Creative as Deadline Looms for Domestic Flyers

The race is on to snag a REAL ID before the big deadline hits on May 7, when you’ll need one to board a domestic flight. With DMVs all over the country jammed with applicants, states are rolling out some pretty inventive fixes—because if there’s anything more thrilling than a trip to the DMV, it’s realizing you need an appointment yesterday.

DMVs have started stretching their hours and even holding Saturday events just for REAL ID seekers. Some places, like New Jersey, are offering ‘emergency’ appointments, and the airlines aren’t shy about reminding travelers to get their paperwork in order before heading to the airport.

According to TSA, 81% of travelers are already set with a REAL ID or another approved ID. But with the deadline closing in, state DMVs are hustling to help procrastinators get compliant. The expectation is that last-minute demand will only keep climbing.

New York wins the innovation prize this year, bringing DMV services right to the people—literally. DMV staff are stationed at the New York International Auto Show at the Javits Center, processing REAL ID applications through April 27. So you can check out the latest cars and upgrade your ID in a single trip. DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder encouraged folks to take advantage, saying it’s a chance to handle your DMV business while enjoying the show.

Other states are getting in on the action, too. In Arkansas, revenue offices are opening up for the REAL ID rush, and Chicago has set up a ‘REAL ID Supercenter’—a walk-in spot that’s all REAL ID, all the time, at least during the week.

New Jersey’s ‘REAL ID Emergency Issuance Program’ is for those who need to fly within 14 days for urgent or life-or-death reasons and have no approved ID handy. Not to sound dramatic, but the stakes are high for anyone stuck without documentation and a ticking clock.

If you’re not quite ready to brave the DMV lines, don’t panic—other forms of ID will still get you through security, like a valid U.S. passport, a DHS trusted traveler card, Department of Defense IDs, permanent resident cards, or border crossing cards.

Airlines and airports are doing their part to spread the word. At LaGuardia, airport workers have been spotted handing out fliers, practically begging travelers not to wait until the last minute. Meanwhile, Kentucky’s state senators are asking for a deadline extension, arguing there just aren’t enough appointments to go around and folks shouldn’t have to camp out at the DMV for a chance at compliance.

In a letter to the Homeland Security Secretary, Kentucky’s lawmakers pointed out the previous extensions and called for another, hoping for a smoother, less panic-inducing rollout. Time will tell if that wish comes true, but for now, the REAL ID scramble is officially in high gear.