The federal Real ID deadline is just two weeks away, and with less than 40% of Kentuckians eligible for driver’s license compliant, 28 state senators are asking the federal government to again delay the move.
Currently, just 36.3% of Kentuckians eligible for a driver’s license have a Real ID, the state says.
Sen. Jimmy Higdon, R-Lebanon, chair of the Kentucky Senate Transportation Committee, joined 27 other state senators this week calling for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to delay the May 7 deadline. The letter, dated April 17, says Kentucky “isn’t fully prepared” for the change.
“If the REAL ID requirement moves forward as scheduled, it will further strain already overburdened regional offices and create unnecessary hardship, particularly for seniors, rural residents, and working families who struggle to access the necessary documents or transportation,” the letter says. “Some measures were passed in the last legislative session, but these will not be implemented before May 7.
The state senators asked Noem for “another reasonable extension” to ensure a smooth rollout.
In Louisville, lines are growing as people rush to get their Real IDs. A quick search Wednesday of upcoming appointments at local branches showed no openings.
John Woodford was at the branch at Broadway and 29th Street in west Louisville on Wednesday. He said he’d been in line for more than 30 minutes.
It’s hard for time slots, it’s too long, (and) there’s not a big enough place for us,” Woodford said. “… Everybody wants to get here early, so it’s going to be a line when you get here early.”
With just two weeks left before the deadline, many people wish the branches could do more to accommodate the people waiting like extending hours or offering more places or space to service people who need the Real ID.
“Build a bigger branch out here,” Woodford said. “I know it’s the west end, but it’s the best end. Help us out. We are just trying to get things done on the timeline.”
Real ID licenses are available for $24 for a four-year ID, and $48 for an eight-year ID.
To make an appointment at one of the state’s regional licensing offices, click here. Walk-in customers are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
All Kentucky regional Driver Licensing Offices are equipped to issue REAL ID versions of licenses or identification. Kentucky residents who already have a Real ID can renew online or by mail, but first-time applicants have to apply in-person with required documents. A list of acceptable documents is available at RealIDKy.com.
