New Jersey residents should expect the REAL ID compliance deadline of May 7, 2025

✔️ REAL-ID is a new type of identification with strict standards

✔️ The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID is May 7, 2025

✔️ After 5/5/25 you will no longer be able to board a domestic flight in America

Have we never heard that before?

When it feels like we’ve already heard about driving licenses in New Jersey Real ID forever, you wouldn’t be wrong.

We’ve been hearing for years that we’ll need these if we want to fly to the US.

New Jersey has set a firm date.

This date is May 7, 2025. After this date you will need a REAL ID card or passport if you want to fly.

Now is a good time to get this out of the way.

What is a Real ID?

In 2005, in response to a recommendation from the 911 Commission, Congress passed the Real ID Act, which

It established minimum security standards for the issuance and production of licenses and prohibited certain federal agencies from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards for certain purposes from states that did not meet the Act’s minimum standards.

How do you get a real ID?

If you already have a New Jersey driver’s license, the process is simple.

The first thing you want to do is collect your 6 identification points.

Items needed include t

2 proofs of your current address

1 Proof of your social security number

6 ID points

There are very specific requirements for this.

You’ll need things like your current driver’s license, utility bills, tax forms, etc. See the full list of options Click here.

Once you have your six points of identification, you should schedule an appointment with the NJ DMV to secure your ID in person.

Do I really need a real ID?

When I discuss this with friends, some insist they can’t get a REAL ID.

There is disbelief that people actually need one.

This is understandable considering how many times the deadline has been extended.

This time, officials insist there will be no extension.

Besides, it’s true. You don’t need a REAL ID and you can still use your regular driver’s license to drive.

The problem you will run into is if you are planning a trip that requires you to fly anywhere in the United States.

The REAL ID is indicated by a gold star in the upper right corner of your driver’s license (see below).

If you fly, you will need to present either a passport or a real ID card.

If you don’t have one of the two, you can’t avoid TSA Security.

How much does a real ID cost?

The cost of a REAL ID is $35. If your license needs to be renewed, you may do so at this time.