Demand for Real IDs surge, officials warn of May 7 deadline
There's a big demand for Real IDs as TSA urges people to get one by May 7th when they begin enforcing it.
The ID is marked with a gold star in the right corner to let airport security know the person went through extra security and verification. But AAA experts say this doesn't mean people only have until May 7th to get one. Adding that the deadline has caused some confusion among those rushing to get one.
This has led to an increased demand at local RMVs and all AAA branches across the state. Mark Schieldrop with AAA Northeast told 22News, 'I think some people feel a little panicked or a sense of urgency. They need to get their Real ID before the deadline. There's been plenty of time to get a Real ID. It's not going away anytime soon. So, unless you immediately have to fly right after May 7, you can wait until things calm down a little bit.'
Schieldrop says if you wait, you won't have to worry about beating the crowds. You'll also be able to pick a convenient time or appointment that works. Adding it will also allow those with immediate travel plans to maybe get a slot since slots are occasionally opening up. AAA says they should begin to see even more appointments to open up after May 13th.
However, a spokesperson with MassDOT says if a person needs a REAL ID soon, because they are traveling by airplane on May 7, it is unlikely at this time that the customer will receive the credential in time for the travel. Since it can take 10 to 14 business days from the day of their appointment to receive their RMV credential in the mail.
The Registry is currently accepting walk-ins for REAL ID transactions at all service centers when availability permits. Before coming in to be helped, residents must check to see that they have the federally required documents to get a REAL ID compliant RMV credential.
Those who don't have a Real ID by May 7th can show a U.S. Passport.
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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