The legislation aims to address the shortage of available in-person appointments 

(TRENTON) – As summer travel ramps up, New Jersey residents are scrambling to get their REAL IDs before the May 7 deadline. But when they visit the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website to make an appointment, many are met with a frustrating message: “No Appointments Available.” While the MVC has been adding more appointments in response to the increased demand and offering emergency slots for residents with imminent travel plans and no passport, many residents are still left in limbo, unable to secure an appointment. In response, Assembly Majority Leader Lou Greenwald has introduced Bill A5632, which would require the MVC to establish and administer an online application for REAL ID identification cards and licenses.

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to enhance security standards for state-issued IDs, but the enforcement deadline has been pushed five times—initially due to state compliance challenges and more recently because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent extension was announced in December 2022, moving the deadline from May 3, 2023, to May 7, 2025.

While residents can continue using their current driver's licenses and IDs for most everyday purposes like driving or age verification, beginning May 7, individuals without a REAL ID or a passport will encounter new travel limitations, as TSA begins requiring them for domestic air travel.

Some states, like Pennsylvania, have already established online portals for residents to apply for a REAL ID, while others, like New York, allow residents to submit their documents online for pre-screening before going to an in-person appointment.

“There’s no reason, in the 21^st century, that we should still be relying solely on in-person appointments,” said Majority Leader Greenwald (D-Burlington, Camden). “These appointments are time-consuming, often require residents to take off work or travel long distances, and a single forgotten document means starting the process all over again. We have heard from numerous constituents who are frustrated by the inability to get an appointment. This bill aims to alleviate that headache, increase compliance, and ensure no one is left facing unnecessary disruptions at the airport.”

A recent CBS survey identified New Jersey as the state with the lowest REAL ID compliance, with just 17% of residents having obtained a REAL ID.

Under the bill, the MVC would be required to establish an online process for New Jersey residents to apply for a REAL ID license or identification card. The MVC would accept electronically submitted copies of identity and lawful status documents. Once the MVC confirms the applicant has satisfied all the federal requirements, their application would be approved and processed, without the need for an in-person appointment.

“We understand the importance of a REAL ID; air travel safety is paramount,” Greenwald added. “But we also understand that people are busy. Making this process easier and more convenient is key to helping our constituents cross this off their to-do list so they can enjoy a stress-free summer.”