HARRISBURG, PA — To help Pennsylvania residents prepare for the approaching federal enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a series of upcoming REAL ID Days events. These targeted events are aimed at providing expanded assistance to residents seeking to obtain a REAL ID, a credential necessary for air travel and entry to federal facilities as mandated by the federal government.
PennDOT officials noted the rising demand for REAL IDs, with over 2,300 individuals served at previous REAL ID Days events across the state. The initiative underscores the department’s dedication to improving customer service and ensuring all Pennsylvanians have easy access to the resources required to meet federal requirements.
“PennDOT is committed to making it as convenient as possible for Pennsylvanians to obtain a REAL ID if they want one,” stated PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services Kara Templeton. “Because we’re seeing an increase in demand, we decided to offer our REAL ID Days as a way to ensure we are meeting the needs of the public and providing them with the best possible customer service.”
The upcoming REAL ID Days are scheduled for Monday, March 3, 2025, and will operate from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at six dedicated Driver License Centers across Pennsylvania, including:
- Bridgeville Driver License Center: 1025 Washington Pike, Bridgeville
- Altoona Driver License Center: 1738A 9th Avenue, Altoona
- Erie Driver License Center: 7200 Peach Street, Suite 480, Erie
- Lancaster East Driver License Center: 2090 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster
- Whitehall Driver License Center: 1101 MacArthur Road, Allentown
- King of Prussia Driver License Center: 143 South Gulph Road, King of Prussia
During these events, the participating centers will exclusively process REAL ID applications and related transactions, allowing staff to focus on assisting customers with efficiency and accuracy. While REAL ID Days are held on Mondays—typically a day when centers are closed—these facilities will maintain their regular hours throughout the week to accommodate additional driver’s license services.
The federal REAL ID requirement, which was first announced in 2005, is part of nationwide efforts to standardize identification for security purposes. Residents without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card after the May 7, 2025, deadline will need an alternative form of federally acceptable identification for domestic travel or entering secured federal buildings.
Through initiatives like REAL ID Days, PennDOT is ensuring residents are well-prepared ahead of the deadline. These events reflect the Shapiro Administration’s overarching commitment to customer-focused services and infrastructure enhancements.
With an expected surge in applications as the enforcement date approaches, PennDOT’s proactive measures aim to streamline the REAL ID process, providing residents with the convenience, support, and readiness they need to meet federal standards confidently. For a complete list of REAL ID Days events, visit PennDOT’s website.
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