New Jersey faces bipartisan outrage over REAL ID compliance failure

In New Jersey, the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID, required for air travel, approaches on May 7, exacerbating frustrations among residents. As of a recent CBS survey, fewer than 20% of state residents hold a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. State Assemblymember Nancy Muñoz has criticized the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) for its lack of preparedness, as constituents struggle to secure appointments. Long wait times and limited availability have driven residents to search intensely for slots to apply, with some traveling great distances. Despite the state's legal compliance with federal standards mandating REAL IDs, New Jersey ranks last among the states surveyed, indicating systemic issues within the MVC's application process. Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald expressed understanding for the residents' concerns and plans to introduce a bill aimed at allowing online applications for REAL IDs to alleviate the backlog. The current process is seen as overly reliant on in-person appointments, which are cumbersome and often require missing work or taking on lengthy travel. The challenges faced by New Jersey in implementing the REAL ID program relate to its policies regarding driver's licenses for illegal immigrants, which differ from other states that limit licenses to citizens only. This discrepancy has resulted in a lower baseline compliance rate in New Jersey as a fraction of the eligible population cannot obtain a REAL ID. The MVC has established special "REAL ID Thursdays" to focus on processing these applications, along with extended staff hours to manage the demand. However, Muñoz argues that the MVC has had adequate time to prepare for the surge of applications given the long-standing nature of the upcoming deadline. As the deadline nears, statutory travel requirements have also contributed to rising concern among those without a REAL ID. Although many travelers can utilize alternative identification such as U.S. passports or permanent resident cards, there exists a significant population—representing about 19% of Americans—without valid ID options compliant with REAL ID standards. This means that passengers arriving at the airport without appropriate documentation can face delays, additional screenings, and the possibility of not being allowed through security. Advocates emphasize the necessity for residents to secure a REAL ID, as relying on alternatives could complicate their travel experience. With pressure building, the situation illuminates the widespread logistical challenges faced by state agencies in meeting federal requirements while catering to the needs of their constituents.