Real ID law enforcement begins, travelers scramble for compliance

In the United States, the looming enforcement of the Real ID law on May 7, 2025, has prompted significant urgency among residents, particularly in the Bay Area, to secure appointments at local DMV offices. Many residents are encountering long wait times as they rush to obtain a Real ID before the deadline, which is necessary for air travel. The requirement of a Real ID will eliminate the acceptance of non-compliant state-issued driver's licenses at airport security, although travelers can still use alternatives such as passports or other federally approved forms of identification. As the deadline approaches, DMV offices across the country are experiencing a surge in applications for Real IDs, with DMV spokesperson Jaime Garza acknowledging the increase in demand. The situation has been compounded by previous delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, further emphasizing the urgency for compliance before the law is enacted.