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Longer lines, Extreme Demand Reported in Massachusetts as REAL ID ‘Deadline' Approaches
Longer lines, Extreme Demand Reported in Massachusetts as REAL ID ‘Deadline' Approaches

Yahoo

time25-04-2025

  • Yahoo

Longer lines, Extreme Demand Reported in Massachusetts as REAL ID ‘Deadline' Approaches

Starting this May 7th, people who board flights must show a REAL ID if they plan to fly from U.S. airports. The REAL ID is a driver's license or identification card marked with a gold star in the right corner, which indicates the individual went through an extra layer of security and verification. When May 7th arrives, the Transportation Security Administration will begin enforcing this law, but it doesn't mean people only have until May 7th to obtain the ID. The deadline and what it signifies has caused some confusion among those rushing to RMVs and AAA branch locations (for members only) throughout Massachusetts, according to AAA Northeast Senior Spokesperson Mark Schieldrop. He told Boston 25 News that the confusion has contributed to more people flocking to AAA offices to get their REAL ID. 'We're pretty booked solid through the next couple of weeks,' he explained. 'There is a real sense of urgency.' Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie said extreme customer demand is something RMVs across the state have experienced in the month of April. On Friday, the average wait time for walk-ins and appointments at RMVs statewide was 38 minutes and 33 minutes, respectively. She indicated wait times could be longer at their busier service centers such as Revere and Boston's Haymarket. Ogilvie said RMV staff have informed members of the public of the wait times once they arrive. For those who don't want to get caught in the last-minute rush to obtain a REAL ID, Schieldrop and Ogilvie shared several, helpful reminders. If people have a trip on or soon after May 7th, and they don't have a REAL ID already, they can still use a passport to move through TSA's security checkpoints without issues. They also advise people to review their travel plans, and if they have a trip planned for later in the year, then they can afford to wait until things slow down. Schieldrop estimates fewer people will be trying to get a REAL ID in late May or early June. He explained, 'Think about it on a case-by-case basis, 'are you in a position where you might have to hop on a plane on short notice? Do you have family members who live out of state?'' Once you get an appointment, Ogilvie recommends that people review the documents that are needed to attain the ID. Massachusetts identification (ID) requirements | She noted people who have had a name change since the issuance of a birth certificate or passport must show documentation like a divorce decree, marriage certificate or court paperwork that indicates this change. Ultimately, the REAL ID allows people to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings, but a standard driver's license will remain a valid form of identification for everything else. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW

Massachusetts RMV scrambles before Real ID deadline
Massachusetts RMV scrambles before Real ID deadline

Axios

time31-03-2025

  • Axios

Massachusetts RMV scrambles before Real ID deadline

You have a little over one month to obtain a Real ID before it's required for domestic flights and access to some federal facilities like courthouses and military bases. Why it matters: Only 57% of Massachusetts driver's license and state ID-holders have upgraded to Real ID so far, according to the Registry of Motor Vehicles. The low adoption rate could cause headaches for travelers trying to fly out of Logan this spring. Be smart: The RMV recommends scheduling appointments at least three weeks before a domestic flight. Many of the agency's appointment blocks are booked solid before the May 7 deadline. RMV locations outside of the Boston area have more openings but can be a hassle to get to during operating hours. Good luck finding an appointment at the bigger metro RMVs like Haymarket and Braintree. Threat level: Given the looming deadline, maxed-out appointment system and 10-14 business day wait for the new license, most people who haven't yet started the process won't be able to get a Real ID before May 7. The RMV recommends bringing a valid passport if you have a flight after the deadline and can't get the upgrade in time. 💭 Deehan's thought bubble: I just drove all the way to New Bedford for my renewal and Real ID upgrade. The next closest available location for the day I had open was Springfield. My RMV agent jokingly asked how the drive down from Dorchester went when she saw my address. Catch up quick: After May 7, the TSA will require the new ID for everything from the JFK shuttle to the long-haul flight to Honolulu. Unexpired non-Real ID Massachusetts licenses and IDs will still be valid for driving and accessing benefits but won't work for air travel after the deadline. In Massachusetts, the $25 REAL ID upgrade appointment requires original or certified documents showing proof of lawful presence in the U.S., Social Security number, and two proofs of Massachusetts residency. Plan to wait at least 10-14 business days for your new ID to arrive. Flashback: Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005, but implementation was delayed multiple times over the past 20 years. What we're watching: With less than two-thirds (3 million) of Mass. IDs upgraded so far, the summer travel season could see a lot of passengers turned away from Logan airport security lines and airline agents bombarded by irate customers.

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