Urgent: Secure Your Real ID in Maricopa Before the Deadline!

As travel plans for summer begin to take shape, travelers are reminded of the approaching deadline for obtaining a Real ID. With May 7 looming, those planning to fly domestically need to be aware of the requirements.

Implemented under the 2005 Real ID Act, this federal requirement sets minimum security standards for state-issued IDs. Despite several extensions over the years, the current deadline is expected to remain unchanged.

Lewis Green, the owner of Arizona State Express Motor Services in Maricopa, emphasizes the convenience of having a Real ID. “Truthfully, it’s extremely convenient when traveling here in the states,” he stated, mentioning that the application process is straightforward.

In Maricopa, Arizona State Express Motor Services is the sole location for residents to apply for the travel ID. The closest alternative is the Motor Vehicle Division in Chandler, located about 20 miles away.

To obtain a Real ID, individuals must complete an online application through the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division or visit a third-party service. The necessary documents include a birth certificate or U.S. passport, a social security number, and two proof of residency documents, like a utility bill or bank statement.

Once at the service location, applicants will need to take a new ID photo and pay the $25 fee. Green noted that appointments aren’t required at his facility, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis. He advises potential applicants to arrive early, with peak times identified around 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

After application processing, the Real ID typically arrives by mail within approximately two weeks, allowing travelers to finalize their summer plans without worry.