1 day Ago By Delaney White
San Diego International Airport is preparing for potential delays as the REAL ID enforcement deadline approaches on May 7th.The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) lines at the airport are expected to be longer due to the new requirement, which mandates that travelers 18 and older must present a Real ID-compliant license or identification card to board domestic flights. The California DMV has been urging travelers to begin the application process online to avoid last-minute rushes, and offices across the state have been opening even on weekends to handle last-minute applicants.
"Our DMV offices are going to be very busy," said Eva Spiegel, California DMV Deputy Director of Public Affairs, highlighting the expected increase in demand for REAL IDs.Here’s what happens if you don’t have a REAL IDNicole Hall, Public Information Officer at San Diego International Airport, advised travelers to "plan ahead, check your ID, and make sure that you have a compliant ID as well as plan to arrive early."To accommodate the anticipated demand for REAL IDs, DMV locations in San Marcos, Poway, El Cajon, and Clairemont will have extended hours, with the Poway DMV open all day on Saturdays.
Travelers who have a REAL ID appointment and upload certain documents to the DMV website before their appointment can expect the process to take about 30 minutes once inside an office, according to Eva Spiegel. REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star in the upper right corner and contain other security measures. If your ID lacks this marking, it is not compliant.
The San Diego International Airport will have extra staff on duty on May 7th to assist travelers and answer questions. Travelers can still use passports and other forms of federal government ID if they do not have a REAL ID. The airport is encouraging travelers to visit the TSA's website to ensure they have the proper documents before heading to the airport.
With the Real ID enforcement deadline looming, San Diego International Airport and the DMV are taking steps to manage the expected increase in demand and ensure travelers are prepared. Passengers are advised to check their IDs and plan for additional time at the airport to avoid delays.All facts from this article were gathered by FOX 5/KUSI journalists.
This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by FOX 5/KUSI staff..
