Long lines expected as Pennsylvania faces looming Real ID deadline
- Residents in Pennsylvania have until May 7, 2025, to obtain a Real ID to board domestic flights without a passport.
- A significant increase in applications has prompted PennDOT to open additional driver's license centers on Mondays to manage the expected demand.
- Users of DMV services are encouraged to apply early and consider online renewal options to avoid long waits at the DMV.
In Pennsylvania, time is running out for residents to obtain a Real ID, with only 36 days left until the official deadline of May 7, 2025. During a recent visit to Cumberland County, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro highlighted the importance of the Real ID for those who do not possess a passport and plan to fly domestically after the deadline. Approximately 26% of Pennsylvania drivers, equating to around 2.5 million people, have already obtained their Real ID. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) announced plans to address the surge in demand for Real IDs by keeping 57 driver's license centers open on Mondays through the deadline, although they typically do not operate on that day. PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll warned that long lines and overcrowding would be expected, as many residents have waited until the last minute to apply. He urged people to bring all necessary documents, particularly if they have undergone a name change, as legal proof will be required. Despite the extended period to prepare for the Real ID requirement, many individuals have delayed their applications, prompting officials to express concerns about overwhelming crowds at DMV offices. State officials noted that travelers over the age of 18 will need a Real ID-compliant identification or a valid passport to access TSA security checkpoints beginning May 7, 2025. Previous regulations had been announced in response to the 9/11 Commission recommendations which, driven by national security needs, led to the enactment of the Real ID Act in 2005 to ensure that proper security protocols were in place for government-issued identifications. As the deadline swiftly approaches, officials in other states, like Illinois, have also reported increased applications and are implementing measures to accommodate the influx of last-minute requests. Pennsylvania's DMV anticipates significant crowds, and the department hopes to alleviate some of this pressure by encouraging drivers to use online services or renew their licenses via mail, where applicable. As the state strives to process applications efficiently, travelers are reminded to act quickly to secure their Real IDs or passports before the critical date arrives, ensuring they can travel without interruption.