The clock is ticking. In just a day, Americans will need more than a standard driver’s license to fly. From now on, a physical ID with a gold star in the upper right corner will be necessary.
Starting May 7th, passengers must show their new IDs or another form of acceptable identification for domestic flights. This deadline has caused quite a stir, leaving many scrambling to secure their new IDs before they travel.
Married women must update their real ID documentation.
Those who registered for the actual ID will receive updates by mail, although the timing differs by state. In New York, once you apply, a temporary ID will come through the mail, but it could take around two weeks for the finalized ID to reach you.
In California, the DMV states it typically takes between two to four weeks to receive your physical ID after application. Meanwhile, in Michigan, you can expect your ID in about two to three weeks according to their DMV website.
Pennsylvania has shared that if someone registers with the DMV, the actual ID should be sent within 15 business days. However, if travelers head to the Penndot Real ID Center, they can get verified and receive their ID on the same day.
Real ID struggles may plague both airline travelers and states.
Daniel Veres, a TSA spokesperson from New England, offered guidance for those still waiting on their IDs. He explained that passengers showing a non-compliant state ID with a state letter or receipt could face extra screening, but generally, should still move through security faster than those presenting only letters or receipts.
He recommends you carry another form of ID—like a U.S. passport—if you’re stuck without your new ID to improve your chances of getting through security quickly. Veres emphasized arriving at the airport three hours before your flight if you don’t have a suitable ID.
Other accepted IDs besides the actual ID include a valid U.S. passport, passport card, trusted traveler cards like Global Entry, Department of Defense IDs, Permanent Resident Cards, and Border Crossing Cards.
Unexpected factors causing real ID rejections emerge.
On Reddit, someone shared their recent experience. They had applied for their actual ID on April 7, but tracking showed it was mailed on the 15th, and they still hadn’t received it. Their attempts to contact anyone for help were met with silence.
As users chimed in, one recalled waiting over a month without receiving their ID. They ended up applying for another replacement at the Secretary of State, paying the associated fee again.
Others voiced similar concerns and frustrations. One user mentioned they went to get their ID printed, but communication about its status was lacking. They were worried about the long wait for their ID to arrive.
A looming deadline has people on edge.
Another user expressed disbelief that the deadline was, in fact, here after so much discussion over the years. A different commenter noted they trust the DMV and USPS to process their applications promptly.
Some residents are opting to rely on their passports until their new IDs arrive. While many are anxious, others found some luck in receiving their actual IDs in a timely manner. Still, that uncertainty looms large as travel plans draw closer.
