The Department of Homeland Security has announced the extension of the REAL ID full enforcement date to May 7, 2025. A REAL ID is the new federal requirement for state-issued driver licenses and non-driver IDs to help prevent fraudulent identification. 

The delay in the enforcement date will now give states additional time to ensure their residents have driver’s licenses and identification cards that meet the security standards established by the REAL ID Act

Federal agencies including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet these federal standards, as required by the law. 

“DHS continues to work closely with U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories to meet REAL ID requirements,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas in a press release. “This extension will give states needed time to ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card. DHS will also use this time to implement innovations to make the process more efficient and accessible. We will continue to ensure that the American public can travel safely.” 

All 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and four of five U.S. territories covered by the REAL ID Act and related regulations are issuing REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards.

Scroll below for more information on the REAL ID extension.

  • When should you get your REAL ID?

    You can upgrade now or when you are due for renewal at all licensing centers. Click here to view the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission Appoint Scheduling site.

  • Who should get a REAL ID?

    According to the NJVMC website:

    REAL IDs are best for those who typically use their driver license or non-driver ID (instead of a passport or other forms of ID) to fly within the U.S.

  • Air travelers 18+ will need a REAL ID

    Under the new regulations, beginning May 7, 2025, every traveler 18 years of age or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification at airport 1security checkpoints for domestic air travel. 

  • What to bring?

    -2 proofs of residential address
    -1 proof of Social Security Number
    -6 points of ID

    All your documents will be scanned for you to get a REAL ID. Click here to view the document selector checklist.

  • REAL ID in 90 seconds:

  • Official press release:

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