As the May 7 deadline for the Real ID requirement approaches, millions of Americans are still unprepared, leading to chaos at Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) offices nationwide. States like New Jersey, California, and Michigan are experiencing increased demand, with some locations extending hours to accommodate the rush. While many citizens scramble to secure their Real IDs to ensure they can fly and access federal buildings, only a fraction have completed the process, raising concerns about potential travel disruptions. Authorities emphasize the importance of obtaining a Real ID while outlining the necessary documents and steps for application. The looming deadline has ignited a nationwide push for compliance, but experts caution that those without a Real ID by the due date may face challenges, as enforcement will begin shortly after.