Rossen Reports: Why you need a 'Real ID' with deadline looming
Travelers must obtain a by May 7 to fly domestically, as regular driver's licenses will no longer be accepted.
The new, mandated federal ID card will be required for all domestic air travel, or travelers can use a passport. A Real ID can be identified by a star in the corner of the license. The star could be gold or black, within a circle or logo, or by itself -- it varies by state.
To get a Real ID, sign up for an appointment at your local DMV as soon as possible. Reports indicate massive wait times, even just to get an appointment.
In Miami-Dade, authorities uncovered a scalping ring selling DMV appointments for Real IDs. Appointments are always free, so never pay for one.
At the appointment, bring proof of identity and residency. Some states may require additional documents, so check your state requirements online.
Even after the appointment, it takes another two weeks for the new ID to arrive in the mail. If you have a flight on May 7, sign up for an appointment immediately.