As the May 7 deadline for obtaining a REAL ID looms, Oregonians and residents of several states are flooding DMV offices to secure their identification before they are required for travel. TSA has announced that passengers without a REAL ID will face delays or be pulled from lines at airports, reflecting growing concerns over compliance among travelers. States like Illinois and Louisiana report low numbers of residents ready for the change, while in Vermont, 92% are compliant. Meanwhile, officials in states such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania are addressing confusion and ensuring residents know what to prepare for. Critics are raising issues regarding the potential for fraud and the challenges women face in securing documentation. The situation is further complicated by FAA staff shortages, which may hinder summer travel plans. With the deadline fast approaching, questions persist about the necessity of REAL IDs and alternatives for those who may not have them in time.