New Jersey Joins Texas, Minnesota, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Montana, and Others in Facing Major Travel Delays in the U.S. Due to REAL ID Changes at Year-End: Everything You Need To Know

Published on December 18, 2025

As the end of the year approaches, New Jersey joins Texas, Minnesota, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Montana, and other states in facing major travel delays across the U.S. due to ongoing REAL ID changes. With a surge in applications and overwhelmed processing centers, these states are experiencing severe backlogs and extended wait times. These delays are causing frustration among travelers as they try to secure their REAL IDs before the federally mandated deadline. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the current situation, including reasons for the delays and what you can do to avoid them.

New Jersey: Severe Backlog at MVC – Prepare for Long Waits

New Jersey is facing extreme gridlock at Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) branches, causing significant delays in the processing of REAL ID applications. Appointments are booked out until February 2026, with officials reporting that securing an appointment is nearly impossible in the short term. Many residents are being forced to either wait for cancellations or explore alternative solutions. The MVC encourages people to plan well in advance and explore other local branches for possible appointments, though these too are overwhelmed.

Texas: Critical Delays in Major Cities

In Texas, major metropolitan areas such as Austin, Dallas, and Houston are experiencing critical delays in REAL ID processing. Residents are reporting wait times of 3 to 6 months for in-person appointments due to an overwhelmed Department of Public Safety (DPS). With DPS centers flooded with applicants, it’s recommended that residents check for appointment cancellations daily. Texas residents are also encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid further delays.

Minnesota: Surge in Applications Creating Backlogs

Minnesota is grappling with a surge in REAL ID applications, resulting in processing delays of over three months. Officials have urged residents to apply well ahead of time to avoid even longer wait times as demand increases. With application backlogs and delays, residents are advised to take immediate action and apply early to ensure they can receive their REAL IDs on time. The state is also working to improve processing efficiency but anticipates delays throughout 2026.

Illinois: High Demand and Overcrowded DMV Offices

Illinois is currently experiencing high demand for REAL ID appointments, with significant overcrowding at DMV offices. The state has established “Super Centers” to manage the overwhelming volume, with these centers serving up to 1,500 people daily. However, compliance rates are still below 50%, contributing to long wait times and difficulty securing appointments. It’s crucial for Illinois residents to be prepared for extended waits and to explore the possibility of attending a Super Center.

Pennsylvania: Long Lines and Delays Due to Low Compliance

Pennsylvania is facing long in-person lines due to low compliance rates, with approximately 27% of residents having already obtained their REAL IDs. Wait times at DMV offices can exceed 3 hours for walk-ins, and it may take up to 15 business days to receive a card by mail. Pennsylvania officials recommend that travelers with valid passports wait until 2026 to apply for a REAL ID to avoid long lines and further delays.

Montana: Limited Appointment Availability

Montana is experiencing limited availability for in-person appointments, contributing to delays in processing REAL ID applications. Residents can expect to wait up to 3 weeks to receive their physical card by mail. Appointment slots are highly limited, and officials have warned that mailing delays are also contributing to longer processing times. Montana residents are advised to plan ahead and be prepared for slower processing times as the state works to manage the influx of applications.

Impacts on Business and Leisure Travelers

The delay in obtaining a REAL ID has significant implications for both business and leisure travelers. For business travelers, the inability to obtain a REAL ID in time could lead to challenges when traveling by air, as airport security requires REAL ID compliance for domestic flights starting in 2025. Similarly, without a REAL ID, access to federal buildings or certain government services may also be restricted.

Leisure travelers are equally affected. With the holiday season approaching, tourists planning domestic flights or visiting federal sites may face roadblocks if they do not have a REAL ID-compliant ID. While a passport can serve as an alternative, many travelers may not have one readily available, causing unnecessary delays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Secure Your REAL ID

To help you navigate the process, here’s a step-by-step guide for obtaining your REAL ID:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements for a REAL ID by visiting your state’s DMV website. You’ll typically need proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of social security number, and proof of residence.
2. Schedule Your Appointment: Use the online booking system provided by your state to schedule an appointment. If availability is limited, sign up for notifications for cancellations or added slots.
3. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documentation before attending your appointment. Missing documents will delay your application and extend your wait time.
4. Complete the Application: Attend your appointment and submit your application, which will involve providing your documents, taking a photo, and paying the application fee.
5. Wait for Processing: After your appointment, your REAL ID will be processed and mailed to you. Keep an eye on your mailbox for the arrival of your ID, which may take several weeks depending on the state.

Conclusion:

With New Jersey and other states facing travel disruptions due to REAL ID changes, travelers must be proactive to avoid further delays. Understanding the root causes of these issues and preparing ahead can help mitigate the impact of processing backlogs. As we approach the year-end deadline, staying informed is key to ensuring a smooth and timely REAL ID acquisition process. Keep checking local appointment availability, and apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on essential travel documentation.

Disclaimer: The Attached Images in This Article are AI Generated