With the actual ID deadline looming next week, preparedness seems to vary across states and individuals.
Many Americans have shared their experiences while trying to obtain their actual ID, and some are even opting not to pursue new forms of identification.
The actual ID requirement kicks in on May 7, meaning that those who want to fly domestically will need to present a new form of ID.
DMVs nationwide are reportedly ramping up efforts to meet the demand, including hosting special Saturday ID events and extending operating hours.
On the New Jersey Department of Automobiles website, numerous days recently showed “0 appointments” available due to high demand for actual ID services.
In a last-minute effort, Governor Phil Murphy and the NJMVC recently introduced “Real ID Tuesdays.”
This initiative adds about 5,200 more biweekly appointments ahead of the federal enforcement date.
Interestingly, New Jersey has one of the highest rates of passport ownership among its residents, according to a TSA representative.
“We’re very prepared,” said Adam Stahl, acting TSA administrator, in a conversation with Fox News Digital.
Stahl mentioned that each state is progressing differently towards real ID compliance, but efforts are being made to work closely with them to ensure readiness.
In Nebraska, statistics show that there are around 1,551,554 driver’s licenses and ID holders, with 1,545,300 of them having actual IDs.
“All airports are unique and different, with different dynamics, composition and latency.”
Local lawmakers and Secretary of State Shenna Bellows in Maine have pushed for a more gradual approach, suggesting that travelers should receive alerts if they don’t possess an actual ID.
“We issue about 112 real IDs per hour at all branches, but as of April 1, we know that only 27% of Mainers have that real ID,” Bellows stated during a press conference.
Read more about the real ID
Stahl emphasized that enforcing the actual ID is a collective societal effort.
“We collaborate with all airports, and as each one has its own unique features and challenges…” he added.
Maryland and D.C. report that 99% of eligible residents have complied, according to Axios.
Concerns have been raised by a Kentucky senator regarding the rush to obtain a new ID, leading to requests for an extension of the deadline.
A group of 28 state senators reached out to Homeland Security Secretary Christie Noem, advocating for an extension since Kentucky is not fully ready for implementation due to long appointment waits.
Stahl noted that registration efforts are being taken seriously.
“They’re incredibly supportive and accommodating, extending registration hours to weekends and being responsive to the spike in compliance,” he mentioned.
He warned, though, that travelers without an actual ID or a valid alternative like a passport may face longer waits and could, in rare cases, be denied boarding.
