Fairhaven AAA Sees ‘Unprecedented’ Demand Ahead of REAL ID Deadline

The REAL ID deadline is right around the corner, and it now appears that it's going to be too late for some people to obtain one before May 7.

REAL ID Deadline Is Approaching Fast. Are You Ready?

We've known it's been coming for years. It’s like that term paper looming over your life. You’ve ignored it, knowing full well that with each passing day, it only gets harder to deal with. Now, procrastinators are about to pay the piper.

What Is a REAL ID and Why Do You Need One?

REAL ID day is almost here: May 7, 2025. That’s just four days shy of 20 years since Congress passed the law requiring a set of national identification standards for driver’s licenses and other state-issued IDs. The law was part of increased national security measures following the September 11th attacks.

Starting May 7, 2025, all airline passengers will be required to show a REAL ID to board a domestic flight. REAL ID may also be necessary for entry into certain federal buildings.

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Good Luck Getting an Appointment at AAA

If you haven’t secured a REAL ID yet, you may be scrambling to get an appointment. On the best of days, getting someone on the phone at the RMV is a frustrating task. Now, it’s even more difficult.

Normally, I rely on AAA in Fairhaven for registry business, but even they are feeling the pressure. The branch is calling the current demand for RMV services “unprecedented.” It's important to note that RMV services at AAA are available exclusively for AAA members.

What to Do If You Can’t Get a REAL ID in Time

AAA members can still schedule appointments online to obtain their REAL ID, but the first available openings are after the May 7 deadline. If you don’t plan to fly after May 7, there’s no urgent need to get the REAL ID just yet.

However, if you do plan to fly on or after that date and can’t get a REAL ID, don’t panic. A valid passport will also be accepted for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities.