Real ID Scramble Leads to DMV Chaos

Starting on May 7, a standard US driver’s license won’t get you very far when it comes to catching a domestic flight—it’ll be about as useful as those old Yugoslavian travel documents. If you’re not keen on lugging around your passport just to hop on a plane, you’ll need to have a Real ID handy. This federally-compliant license is what the TSA will start requiring for air travel.

But here’s where the plot thickens: the deadline for obtaining a Real ID has been pushed back three times, leaving many Americans scrambling to get their hands on one. This rush to comply has turned trips to the DMV into even more of a surreal experience, with people facing epic lines and sky-high demand for appointments. In fact, things have gotten so wild that there are reports of scalpers in Miami selling slots—yikes!

Some folks are finding the Real ID requirements a bit too daunting and are opting to stick with their regular IDs (which won’t do them any good at the airport). Getting a Real ID means providing extra documentation, like a bank statement and a Social Security card. And it seems like not all states are on the same page—while 98% of Texans have already got their hands on a Real ID, only 26% of Pennsylvanians have hopped on board.

Wondering how to spot a Real ID? Look for a special symbol, like a star, in the top right corner—it’s your golden ticket to smooth travels.

Unfortunately, this Real ID switcheroo could spell trouble for airlines, especially when they’re already reeling from decreased demand. With travel plans at risk of being derailed, it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re prepared for the change.