CA, US & World
Real ID Deadline Approaching: Travelers Urged to Prepare Before May 7
The May 7, 2025, deadline for Real ID enforcement is quickly approaching, and travelers are being urged to ensure they have the required identification before it's too late. After this date, the TSA at airports and security at federal buildings nationwide will no longer accept non-Real ID driver’s licenses or identification cards as proof of identity.
If you’re unsure whether your ID is compliant, check for a star in the upper corner of your license. While some states made Real ID conversion mandatory, others—like Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware—left it optional, meaning many residents still need to make the switch. Pennsylvania Transportation Secretary Mike Carroll notes that only about 25% of Pennsylvania drivers currently have a Real ID.
Some travelers have already made the transition. Matt Ritter, who recently obtained his Real ID, admitted he procrastinated but was relieved by the easy process. “I thought the deadline might be extended again, but I could tell this time it wouldn’t be,” he said.
Others, like Adam Hess, have yet to make the switch. “I just didn’t get around to it,” he said, echoing a common sentiment among those still holding standard licenses.
TSA officials emphasize that Real ID provides enhanced security, stemming from recommendations by the 9/11 Commission after terrorists used fraudulent IDs to board flights. To obtain a Real ID, applicants must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and address.
Transportation officials warn that waiting until the last minute could lead to long lines and delays. Secretary Carroll advises that even those who don’t frequently travel should consider getting a Real ID now to avoid complications in the future.
By: NBC Palm Springs
March 4, 2025
Latest Instagram Posts
As Palm Springs Pride organizers prepare for the annual celebration, one local organization is questioning the reasons why they won’t be allowed to participate. Our @newsbyalondra has the full story in the 5,6 and 11 p.m newscast.
The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is holding three city council candidate forums ahead of the November Election. Be sure to visit nbcpalmsprings.com to hear from the President of the Chamber of Commerce who breaks down what residents should know about what they can expect from these forums. #coachellavalley #elections2026 #localnews #citycouncil #candidateforum
Small mistake or a matter of transparency? What’s your take? Drop a comment below 👇 #therogginreport #coachellavalley #desertrecreationdistrict #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
Engineering students craft a robot that takes down a 4x4 Rubik's Cube in less than 10-seconds.
Watch a gargantuan, 5.7-mile-long train nab a world record as it disappears over the horizon!
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Do you do yoga?
When we took a closer look at the Desert Recreation District, the numbers and details just didn’t line up. What are your thoughts on this? Drop your take in the comments👇 #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #desertrecreationdistrict #nbcpalmsprings
Your face may reveal more than you think. Researchers developed AI that analyzes facial photos for clues about biological age and cancer survival. Potentially a future tool to help doctors? 🥼
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Giveaway: 3-4 minutes of air time on Talking with Thalia!
🧛♂️ The Count is in the Coachella Valley! Kevin Mann is back with a new Mann on the Aisle review teaser, taking a bite out of Dracula at Revolution Stage Company! 🩸🎭 Will this production leave him spellbound or thirsty for more? Stay tuned for the full review! #MannOnTheAisle #Dracula #RevolutionStageCompany #TheatreReview #CoachellaValley #NBCPalmSprings