With the deadline for REAL ID approaching in less than a week, some states — and some people — may be more prepared than others.
Americans have been speaking out about their experiences as they try to obtain a REAL ID. In some cases, people have chosen not to get the new form of identification.
The REAL ID requirement takes effect May 7, when Americans must have the new identification in order to fly domestically.
DMVs across the country are reportedly working to meet demand, with some implementing Saturday REAL ID events and extended appointment hours during the week.
The New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles (NJDMV) website has shown “0 appointments available” on various days during the past weeks for REAL ID services on its site.
In a last-minute push, Gov. Phil Murphy (D) and the NJMVC announced the launch of “REAL ID Tuesdays” recently.
The initiative will add 5,200 bi-weekly appointments before federal enforcement begins on May 7.
New Jersey does have one of the highest numbers of residents who are passport holders, a TSA spokesperson shared.
“We’re issuing roughly 112 REAL IDs per hour across all of our branches, but we know as of April 1 only 27% of Mainers have that REAL ID,” Bellows said in a Thursday press conference, according to News Center Maine.
Stahl said the enforcement of REAL ID is “a whole society effort.”
“We are working in close conjunction with every single airport… Every airport is unique and different and they have different dynamics, configurations, wait times. And so we’re working extremely closely with them.”
Maryland and the District of Columbia reported that 99% of eligible residents are compliant, according to Axios.
Stahl said he has seen that states “are really focused on enrollment.”
“They’ve been incredibly supportive and helpful, expanding enrollment hours into the weekends and unconventional hours, to ensure we’re accommodating an increased surge in compliance,” he said.
Stahl cautioned that if travelers do not have a REAL ID or other acceptable IDs such as a valid passport, they “may be susceptible for additional wait times.”
He added that in “some rare circumstances, [they may] be denied boarding.”
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