HARRISBURG, PA — The countdown to the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline has officially begun, and PennDOT is making it easier than ever to get compliant. With the clock ticking toward May 7, 2025, PennDOT has announced a special “REAL ID pop-up event” during the Pennsylvania Farm Show, a one-stop opportunity for Pennsylvanians to take the necessary steps to secure their REAL ID ahead of next year’s deadline.
The pop-up will be held at the Giant Expo Hall, 2300 N. Cameron Street in Harrisburg, conveniently located near the food court. Operating hours will be January 4 from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, January 6-10 from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and January 11 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
“We’re committed to ensuring our customers are ready for the REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025,” said Kara Templeton, PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Driver and Vehicle Services. “By offering a REAL ID pop-up event at the Farm Show, we’re providing an additional opportunity for those who want to obtain a REAL ID and be prepared. We are always striving to provide better service to our customers, and this REAL ID pop-up event accomplishes that mission.”
Why Does REAL ID Matter?
If you plan to board domestic commercial flights, visit military bases, or enter federal facilities that require federally acceptable identification starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card will be required. Alternatively, you can use other federally acceptable identification, such as a passport.
This initiative comes at a critical time as many residents remain unsure about their compliance status. While more than 2.5 million Pennsylvanians have already opted into the REAL ID program, there are still countless others who are either unaware of the requirement or lack the necessary documentation. The upcoming Farm Show pop-up event removes barriers to access, giving attendees the chance to start or complete the process while enjoying one of the state’s biggest annual events.
How to Get REAL ID-Ready
Securing a REAL ID requires specific documentation, and PennDOT isn’t cutting corners on compliance. You’ll need to provide proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of current PA address, and, if applicable, proof of any legal name changes. Some common examples of these documents include:
- Proof of Identity: Original or certified birth certificate with an embossed seal or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport.
- Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or a pay stub displaying your full Social Security number.
- Proof of PA Address: Utility bills, vehicle registration, or a current PA driver’s license.
- Proof of Legal Name Changes: Certified marriage certificates, court orders, or adoption decrees, if applicable.
For those overwhelmed by the requirements, PennDOT is offering an online wizard to help determine whether obtaining a REAL ID makes sense for their individual needs.
The cost for your first REAL ID includes a one-time fee of $30 plus the standard renewal fee for state identification cards or driver’s licenses. Importantly, your REAL ID will not result in the loss of any time already paid for in your existing product. Future renewals will not require an additional fee beyond standard renewal costs.
Streamlined Service at Your Fingertips
Once you’ve gathered all the documents and paid your fees, the process is simple and efficient. Depending on the service center you visit, you can either receive your REAL ID over the counter at one of PennDOT’s 15 REAL ID Centers or have it delivered by mail within 15 days of applying at a Driver License Center.
PennDOT’s decision to place this pop-up event at the heart of the Pennsylvania Farm Show speaks volumes about its effort to reach as many residents as possible. With thousands of attendees expected at the state’s largest indoor agricultural exposition, the event is poised to make a significant impact, ensuring that more Pennsylvanians are prepared for the impending deadline.
Don’t Wait for Last-Minute Headaches
The May 7, 2025, REAL ID deadline is not just another bureaucratic requirement; it’s the new standard for identification across the country. Whether it’s boarding your next flight or accessing federal facilities, having a compliant REAL ID ensures you won’t be left grounded or turned away when enforcement begins. With the added convenience of this pop-up event, there’s no excuse for procrastination.
PennDOT’s initiative at the Pennsylvania Farm Show isn’t just about convenience—it’s about empowering residents to take charge of their travel and security needs. If you haven’t begun the REAL ID process, there’s no better time than now to ensure you’re ready for a seamless transition into this new era of identification.
Mark your calendars, gather those documents, and visit the REAL ID pop-up at the Farm Show. When May 7 rolls around, you’ll be glad you did.
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