News Summary
As the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID approaches on May 7, 2025, residents must act quickly to avoid travel disruptions. Regular driver’s licenses will no longer suffice for domestic flights or access to federal buildings. With only about 45% of Missouri drivers currently holding a REAL ID, long lines at DMVs are expected as people rush to secure their identification. It’s crucial to prepare and confirm if a REAL ID is necessary before heading to the DMV, especially with new Supercenters opening to help manage demand.
Heads Up! REAL ID Deadline is Just Around the Corner
Time flies, and if you haven’t yet secured your REAL ID, now is the time to act! As the deadline approaches on May 7, 2025, it’s important to know that a regular driver’s license won’t cut it anymore when you try to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings and military installations. After this date, you will need to have a REAL ID—a federally compliant ID with a distinctive gold star in the upper corner.
What’s the Story With REAL IDs?
About 45% of people with a driver’s license in Missouri already have a REAL ID, according to authorities. Unfortunately, many folks remain in the dark about this upcoming requirement. With only a week left until the deadline, long lines at DMVs are becoming the norm as people scramble to get their IDs. Some have reported wait times of over two hours, only to leave disappointed without their ID.
Don’t Panic, But Be Prepared!
If you must visit your local DMV to obtain a REAL ID, be ready for a wait. For those who think this is no big deal, consider the story of someone named Paul Robinson, who tried to get his REAL ID but faced a frustrating two-hour wait before deciding enough was enough. So, if you’re planning to go, pack your patience!
The Importance of Getting a REAL ID
Why is this all so essential? Well, starting this May, if you don’t have a REAL ID, you could run into serious travel headaches. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has urged travelers to be aware that without a REAL ID, you may experience longer lines and additional screening during airport security checks. Fortunately, you can still use a valid U.S. passport for travel, so don’t panic if you miss the deadline!
How Do You Get a REAL ID?
Getting a REAL ID can be straightforward if you prep your documents in advance. The process to secure one is similar to that of obtaining a standard ID, and the fees are comparable as well. After you complete the application process, you will receive a temporary paper copy of your REAL ID, while the actual card will be mailed to you within five to seven days.
Is a REAL ID Necessary for Everyone?
For residents in Illinois, things are a bit different. Many people may not require a REAL ID if they already hold a U.S. passport or other accepted forms of ID. Before rushing to the DMV, it’s wise to confirm whether you really need a REAL ID, especially since available appointment slots are limited!
New REAL ID Supercenter and More Openings!
To deal with the anticipated influx of requests for REAL IDs, a new REAL ID Supercenter has opened in downtown Chicago. This location is specially designed to help manage the demand, along with a significant increase of nearly 2,500 daily appointments available at DMVs in the Chicago area. Be sure to check your local DMV for availability and make an appointment if you can.
Final Thoughts
In summary, ensure you have your REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification ready if you want to access secure federal facilities or travel by air after May 7. Believe us; the last thing you want is to face chaos at airports during the busy summer travel season. So go ahead, make that appointment, gather your documents, and don’t let the deadline catch you off guard!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KSDK: REAL ID Deadline for Missouri and Illinois Residents
- NBC Chicago: What Happens If You Don’t Get a REAL ID?
- ABC7 Chicago: TSA Warns of REAL ID Requirement
- WQAD: REAL ID Deadline for Illinois and Iowa Residents
- NBC Chicago: Documents Needed for Travel Without REAL ID
- Wikipedia: REAL ID Act
- Google Search: REAL ID Deadline 2025
- Google Scholar: REAL ID
- Encyclopedia Britannica: REAL ID Act
- Google News: REAL ID Updates
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
