The REAL ID deadline is looming and many travelers are scrambling and confused. Here's what we know

As the deadline for REAL ID enforcement approaches on May 7, New Jersey residents, like Lauren Mills, find themselves scrambling to secure updated driver's licenses to ensure they can fly domestically. The REAL ID Act, enacted to enhance security standards for identification post-9/11, has spurred a surge in demand for appointments at state licensing centers. Many are facing appointment shortages and confusion surrounding the requirements, leading to heightened stress and a sense of urgency reminiscent of the pandemic's panic buying.

What everyone is experiencing now is much like the panic buying of toilet paper during the pandemic; there's a massive rush for appointments as the deadline approaches.

Residents are understandably confused about who needs a REAL ID and what's required to obtain one, especially with varying rollouts across different states.

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