With the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline set for May 7, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission is rolling out an emergency program which will issue REAL ID appointments for urgent travelers.
Beginning on April 24, the program is designed for individuals flying within the U.S. in the next 14 days due to life-or-death emergencies or other urgencies. It provides a limited number of appointments at the Trenton Regional Center for those who lack acceptable identification.
Appointments will not be available through the agency’s standard scheduling platform. Instead, eligible applicants must complete a screening process and present all required documentation to qualify. This includes proof of immediate travel, such as a paid airline ticket or itinerary, and documents demonstrating the urgency of the situation. A hospital letter, death certificate, or statement from a funeral home may be required, depending on the case.
Applicants must also meet REAL ID document requirements: two proofs of residence, one verifiable Social Security number, and identity documents totaling six REAL ID points. A document checklist is available at REALID.nj.gov.
An $80 fee will apply to cover expedited shipping from the state’s secure license production facility. The MVC said the fee ensures delivery within a few business days. There is no charge for the emergency appointment itself.
Only residents without a valid U.S. passport or other TSA-accepted ID are eligible. Travel documentation must show departure within 14 days, and travelers must affirm they lack alternative identification.
The emergency program supplements ongoing efforts by the MVC to meet increased demand. These include extended appointment availability, mobile unit deployments, and weekly REAL ID service days.
Standard driver’s licenses remain valid for driving and identification purposes within the state but will not be accepted for domestic air travel or entry into secure federal facilities starting May 7.
Need to know more about NJ REAL ID? Click here.
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