With the May 7 deadline approaching for new federal travel ID regulations, Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) offices are experiencing an influx of people rushing to get their required documentation before the deadline.
Real ID credentials
. But for many, the process isn’t as straightforward as expected.
Owen Gallagher, a Watertown resident, arrived at the RMV after receiving multiple notifications and seeing media coverage about the looming cutoff.
He stated, ‘I knew I needed to head over here, and fortunately, I arrived just in time.’
But after a 30-minute wait, he was turned away. Real ID applications, he learned, are by appointment only.
He mentioned they could assist us starting about two weeks from then.
There’s no hurry at the RMV.
For those who haven’t obtained a Real ID yet, Massachusetts Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie wants you to stay calm.
If you already possess another type of government-accepted identification, such as a valid U.S. passport, military ID, or DHS Trusted Traveler card, there’s no need to hurry to the RMV this week.
There’s incredibly high demand right now,” Ogilvie stated. “Therefore, if your status isn’t due for renewal and you aren’t planning any trips or possess an active passport, it’s best to hold off.
A representative from TSA informed WBZ-TV that they have plans in place and will be
extracting airline travelers from queue
who do not obtain a Real ID before the deadline.
AAA Northeast reports receiving inquiries from puzzled motorists who want to know whether they require a Real ID for driving. The response is that you don’t need one; Real IDs primarily apply to air travel.
“Unless you plan to board an airplane in the coming few weeks, you can afford to wait and obtain your Real ID at a time that suits you better,” explained Mark Schieldrop from AAA Northeast.
Get ready for your Real ID appointment.
Ogilvie likewise highlighted the significance of readiness.
Applying for a Real ID necessitates additional paperwork compared to obtaining a regular driver’s license. You will need evidence of U.S. citizenship like a birth certificate or passport, two pieces of documentation confirming your Massachusetts residence, along with an official record showing your Social Security number.
In the meantime, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem informed Congress that 81% of Americans are now Real ID compliant, and she anticipates that the May 7 launch will affect most travelers only slightly.
Noem stated that we will ensure it remains as smooth as possible.
Currently, RMV authorities are asking residents to verify their present identification status, prepare accordingly, and steer clear of undue delays, particularly those who already possess valid documents for future trips.
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