REAL ID Enforcement Starts In NJ, But Flying Without One May Be Possible

NEW JERSEY — After years of preparation and delays, REAL ID enforcement began Wednesday — but for those without the new identification needed to fly domestically, federal officials are now saying that they will still be able to travel.

Speaking to a congressional panel on Tuesday, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem assured people who don't yet have a REAL ID but need to take a domestic flight that they will be able to fly after clearing additional identity checks.

Noem told the panel that 81 percent of travelers already have identification that complies with the REAL ID requirements. She said security checkpoints will also be accepting passports and tribal identification.

Those who still lack an identification that complies with the REAL ID law “may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step,” Noem said.

“But people will be allowed to fly,” she said. “We will make sure it’s as seamless as possible.”

In New Jersey, many have been struggling to schedule an appointment to get their REAL ID. As of Tuesday morning, most New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission locations showed no availability for non-renewal appointments.

To address demand, the MVC said it has been adding thousands of new appointments in the online scheduler every morning. The agency also scheduled several REAL ID Mobile Unit events on Saturdays and launched dedicated "REAL ID Thursdays."

Most recently, the MVC announced the launch of a REAL ID Emergency Issuance Program for qualified customers, as well as "REAL ID Tuesdays."

For those without a REAL ID and who also want to avoid additional screening, there is a list of other accepted forms of identification for domestic travel, including a valid U.S. passport or passport card.

What is a REAL ID and who needs one?

The REAL ID law, passed in 2005 in response to the Sept 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, strengthens national security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.

REAL ID was originally supposed to take effect in 2008 but has been delayed for multiple reasons, including those associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. States’ lack of urgency is also to blame, according to testimony at a late December 2023 Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security hearing.

Federal agencies, including the TSA, began REAL ID enforcement on Wednesday. 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."

As of the enforcement date, Garden State residents who are 18 and older must show a REAL ID, a passport, or another form of federally approved identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings when enforcement begins.

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.

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.

What do I need to get a REAL ID?

First, you need to make an appointment through the MVC.

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.

The Associated Press contributed reporting.