Millions In NJ Lack REAL ID As Deadline Looms

NEW JERSEY — With just two weeks before REAL ID enforcement begins, just 17 percent of New Jerseyans have obtained the identification that will soon be required for domestic air travel and to enter certain federal buildings.

With the May 7 deadline approaching, a new analysis by CBS News shows New Jersey has the lowest REAL ID compliance rate in the nation.

And it's not just the Garden State. The analysis conducted from April 7 to 18 found that at least 16 states are less than 50 percent compliant with the law, while 28 states are less than 70 percent compliant.

That means in more than half the country, as many as three in every 10 travelers may not be able to pass through an airport security checkpoint when Real ID enforcement begins.

Meanwhile, demand remains high for in-person appointments at the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission as the REAL ID deadline approaches.

Earlier this week, officials announced a program that will allow travelers with emergencies to obtain a REAL ID driver's license or identification card. The emergency program is being offered in addition to the continued issuance of REAL IDs at licensing centers and mobile units.

Emergency appointments must be made through the Real ID Emergency Issuance Request Portal.

Who needs a REAL ID?

Garden State residents who are 18 and older must show a REAL ID, a passport, or other federally approved identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings when enforcement begins on May 7.

The REAL ID is similar to a regular state identification card or driver's license, but has a small star in the upper right-hand corner.

Federal agencies, including the TSA, will begin REAL ID enforcement on May 7. Agencies may choose to phase in enforcement, but TSA officials have been urging people to upgrade their licenses sooner rather than later "to facilitate a smooth transition."

The REAL ID Act of 2005 does not affect those who only need their ID for driving purposes or identification, and does not apply to those under 18.

A passport or valid U.S. passport card can still be used to fly domestically and internationally.

What do I need to get a REAL ID?

First, you need to make an appointment through the MVC, though most locations are showing limited or no availability for non-renewal appointments as of Friday morning.

While the enforcement deadline is May 7, a REAL ID can still be obtained after that date.

Meanwhile, those who need to renew their license or non-driver ID in the next three months have plenty of appointments to choose from.

The MVC said it has been adding about 3,000 new appointments in the online scheduler every day to accommodate the "historically high" demand for services and also scheduled several REAL ID Mobile Unit events on Saturdays.

To get a REAL ID in New Jersey, you must bring two proofs of residential address, one proof of Social Security Number and six points of ID (a U.S. Passport or birth certificate counts for four points; one-point forms of ID include a high school diploma, social security card, bank/credit union statement, debit card, property tax statement and more).

A REAL ID is $35, while a standard New Jersey license or ID is $24.