TRENTON, NJ – With the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline set for May 7, 2025, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) is making it easier than ever for residents to obtain their REAL ID. Introducing “REAL ID Thursdays,” a new initiative launching on Thursday, March 20, 2025, that will add nearly 4,500 new appointments weekly at NJMVC Licensing Centers across the state.
Additionally, NJMVC is rolling out REAL ID Mobile Unit events on Saturdays, starting April 5, providing even more opportunities for residents to upgrade to a REAL ID without disrupting their weekday schedules.
What is REAL ID and Why Do You Need It?
REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification that will be required for:
✔ Boarding domestic flights
✔ Entering certain federal buildings
✔ Accessing military bases
While obtaining a REAL ID is not mandatory, New Jersey residents without one will need an alternative federally approved ID, such as a passport, for air travel and federal facility access. Standard NJ driver’s licenses remain valid for driving and other forms of identification but will not meet federal requirements after May 7, 2025.
What’s New with ‘REAL ID Thursdays’?
To meet the growing demand for REAL ID services, NJMVC Licensing Centers will dedicate every Thursday exclusively to REAL ID appointments starting March 20.
🔹 License Renewal Appointments – If your license is expiring within three months, you can renew and upgrade to a REAL ID at the same time.
🔹 Non-Renewal Appointments – If your license is valid for more than three months, you can still upgrade to a REAL ID without renewing.
With 4,500 new appointment slots opening weekly, this initiative aims to reduce wait times and improve convenience for New Jersey residents.
REAL ID Mobile Unit Events – Starting April 5
In addition to “REAL ID Thursdays,” NJMVC is launching REAL ID Mobile Unit events on Saturdays, starting April 5. These events will be held at various locations throughout New Jersey, offering another convenient way to obtain a REAL ID.
✔ Both renewal and non-renewal upgrades available
✔ Designed for busy residents who need weekend availability
✔ More accessible locations to serve more communities
How to Book Your REAL ID Appointment
Appointments for “REAL ID Thursdays” will be available starting Friday, March 14, through the NJMVC website. Mobile Unit event appointments will be added later in March.
📌 What to Bring:
✔ 2 proofs of residential address
✔ 1 verifiable Social Security number
✔ Identity documents that total 6 REAL ID Points
For a full list of required documents, visit REALID.nj.gov.
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Key Takeaways
✅ REAL ID enforcement starts May 7, 2025
✅ “REAL ID Thursdays” add 4,500+ appointments weekly, beginning March 20
✅ Mobile Unit events launch April 5 for weekend availability
✅ REAL ID is required for domestic flights & federal facility access
✅ Book your appointment online starting March 14
Plan Ahead – Avoid the Last-Minute Rush!
With the 2025 deadline fast approaching, now is the best time to upgrade to REAL ID and avoid long wait times. Take advantage of NJMVC’s expanded services to ensure you’re prepared well before the federal enforcement date.
For more information, visit REALID.nj.gov or TSA.gov.
📅 Don’t wait – book your REAL ID appointment today!
