Left-wing states rallied for illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses ahead of Trump’s Real ID crackdown

As the federal deadline for obtaining a state-issued REAL ID rapidly approaches, Americans across the country are scrambling to ensure they have the proper identification needed to travel by plane. The REAL ID, which is a federally-compliant driver’s license or identification card, is required for domestic air travel and meets higher security standards than traditional state-issued licenses.

The Department of Homeland Security implemented the REAL ID Act in 2005 in response to the 9/11 attacks, aiming to enhance security requirements for driver’s licenses. While some states began complying with the law early on, enforcement for all states was repeatedly delayed due to various factors such as the pandemic, DMV backlogs, and initial resistance from states like South Carolina.

The push for REAL ID compliance comes at a time when 19 states and Washington, D.C., have changed their laws to allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. These states, ranging from New York to California, made the changes to ensure that illegal immigrants could drive legally, obtain car insurance, and contribute to road safety.

While some lawmakers and immigrant advocacy groups support these changes, others have raised concerns about the potential security risks associated with allowing illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. Critics argue that the ability to obtain a driver’s license without proper verification poses a threat to the validity of state-issued IDs.

As the deadline for REAL ID compliance looms, states like New Jersey have reported long wait times at DMVs as residents rush to obtain the necessary identification. The states that allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses include California, Colorado, Connecticut, and others, with some states enacting these laws as far back as 1993.

The Trump administration, which has been focused on cracking down on illegal immigration, sees the enforcement of the REAL ID law as a way to prevent illegal aliens from freely traveling within the country. A recent memo from the Department of Homeland Security highlighted the security benefits of the REAL ID requirement and emphasized the need to prevent criminals and potential terrorists from exploiting the aviation system.

While many conservatives support the REAL ID Act for its security enhancements, some have raised concerns about the increased oversight and potential privacy implications. Despite the controversy surrounding the REAL ID Act, the Biden administration has set a deadline of May 7, 2025, for full compliance with the law.

As Americans navigate the process of obtaining a REAL ID before the deadline, it remains to be seen how the enforcement of this law will impact domestic air travel and security measures moving forward. The push for REAL ID compliance underscores the ongoing debate over immigration policy, security measures, and the balance between safety and individual freedoms.