After multiple delays and a postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the REAL ID Act will finally go into effect on May 7, 2025. If you plan to travel by air within the United States after this date, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights. Alternatively, travelers can use a U.S. passport or another federally accepted form of identification.
While getting a REAL ID isn’t mandatory for New Jersey residents, those who frequently fly may face significant inconveniences if they do not obtain one before the deadline. The challenge, however, is that thousands of people are trying to get their REAL ID at the same time, leading to long wait times, appointment shortages, and congestion at Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) locations. To address this issue, the New Jersey MVC has launched a new initiative called REAL ID Thursdays, which will significantly increase the number of appointments available for residents seeking to obtain their REAL ID.
Why You Need a REAL ID and How to Get One
The REAL ID Act was introduced in 2005 as a federal security measure following the 9/11 attacks. It establishes stricter requirements for state-issued identification cards, ensuring they meet federal security standards. Without a REAL ID or another federally approved form of identification, travelers will not be allowed to board domestic flights starting on May 7, 2025. This change applies nationwide, making it essential for anyone who travels frequently to take action before the deadline.
New Jersey residents who need a REAL ID must schedule an appointment at an MVC Licensing Center. Walk-ins are not allowed, and securing an appointment has proven to be a difficult task due to high demand. Appointments are booked weeks, sometimes even months, in advance, making it crucial for residents to plan accordingly.
To make the process smoother, the NJMVC has introduced REAL ID Thursdays, beginning on March 20, 2025. This initiative will increase the number of available appointments and allow more people to obtain their REAL ID before the deadline. Every Thursday, select NJMVC Licensing Centers will focus primarily on issuing REAL IDs, adding nearly 4,500 new appointments each week.
How to Book an Appointment and What to Bring
If you need a REAL ID, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible to avoid last-minute issues. Appointments for REAL ID Thursdays will be available for booking every Friday morning starting on March 14, 2025, through the NJMVC’s online appointment scheduler.
To ensure a smooth process, applicants must bring specific documents when applying for a REAL ID. The New Jersey MVC has a document selector tool on its website (REALID.nj.gov) to help residents determine what they need. Generally, the following documents are required:
- Proof of Residential Address (2 documents required) – Examples include utility bills, lease agreements, or mortgage statements.
- Verifiable Social Security Number (1 document required) – A Social Security card or a tax document with your full Social Security number is acceptable.
- Identity Documents (must total 6 REAL ID Points) – This can include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.
It is essential to double-check the required documents before your appointment to avoid any delays or rejections. The NJMVC website provides a detailed guide on acceptable documents to ensure applicants come prepared.
Additionally, New Jersey residents have two types of appointments available:
- REAL ID License Renewal Appointments – For those whose driver’s licenses are expiring within the next three months. These residents can renew their licenses and upgrade to REAL ID at the same time.
- REAL ID Non-Renewal Appointments – For those whose licenses are not expiring soon but still want to upgrade to a REAL ID before the May 7, 2025, deadline.
Avoiding Delays and Ensuring a Smooth Application Process
Since the REAL ID deadline is rapidly approaching, demand is expected to increase significantly in the coming months. To avoid frustration, follow these key tips when applying for your REAL ID:
- Book Your Appointment Early – With thousands of residents trying to secure appointments, waiting until the last minute is not advisable. Set a reminder to book your appointment on Friday mornings when new slots open.
- Check Document Requirements in Advance – Many applicants face delays because they bring incorrect or incomplete documents. Use the document selector tool on REALID.nj.gov to ensure you have everything required.
- Be Patient and Flexible – MVC locations are experiencing heavy demand, so flexibility in scheduling can increase your chances of securing an appointment sooner.
- Consider Alternative Forms of Identification – If getting a REAL ID proves too challenging before the deadline, ensure you have another federally approved ID, such as a U.S. passport, to avoid travel disruptions.
By planning ahead and taking advantage of the REAL ID Thursdays initiative, New Jersey residents can increase their chances of securing a REAL ID before the May 7, 2025, deadline. For more information and to book your appointment, visit REALID.nj.gov.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.
