Krispy Kreme wants to compensate for stress as Americans brace themselves for the long-anticipated REAL ID deadline. On May 7, participating stores and drive-thrus will hand out one free Original Glazed doughnut to every guest. No purchase or ID is required.
A sweet treat for a stress-laden Day
The DMV is rarely anyone’s favorite destination, and May 7 is primed to be especially hectic. The date marks the official start of federal REAL ID enforcement, nearly two decades after the legislation was first passed.
Krispy Kreme recognizes many Americans will feel that extra stress on this day. To lighten the atmosphere, they are offering something simple and comfortable: a free doughnut.
“The DMV can be stressful enough in normal times, but we know May 7 is going to be ‘next level’ stress for many Americans trying to get their REAL ID,” Chief Growth Officer for Krispy Kreme, Dave Skena, said in a statement.
“So, we’re going to keep this simple. Come by on May 7 and have a free Original Glazed doughnut on us—no REAL ID, or any ID, required,” he said.
How to get your free doughnut
To redeem the above offer, simply step into any participating Krispy Kreme shop on May 7. It is available in-store and in the drive-thru. One free Original Glazed doughnut per guest. No purchase is required, and showing any ID, including a REAL ID, is not necessary for receiving your free doughnut.
Bear in mind that the offer is valid only on May 7 and at participating locations, so better check with your Krispy Kreme if you are in doubt.
The REAL ID: What’s the haste?
Passed almost two years ago in view of all the happenings post-9/11 as a measure to strengthen national security, the REAL ID Act stipulates that in order for a state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards to be acceptable for certain federal purposes, they need to be at minimum standards in terms of security.
The law has faced implementation hurdles from day one – be it administrative concerns, public awareness challenges, or the COVID-19 pandemic – and hence has had implementation dates pushed several times. It is now understood that the general deadline of enforcement in May 7, 2025, means that May 7, 2024, is key since it will really begin the clock running to full enforcement; thus it is expected that many Americans will be visiting their DMVs around then.
From then onward, persons who do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or ID will not be allowed to fly domestically or enter some federal facilities unless they provide an alternate form of identification such as a passport.
A shade of comfort when it is needed the most
Distributing free donuts to people might bring a little happiness to what otherwise could be viewed by many as a potentially frustrating day. No documentation, no planning, no spending: just a quick stop and a classic treat—glazed.
So, if you happen to have an appointment today at the DMV on May 7th-or even if you don’t-stop by a Krispy Kreme instead to pick up your complimentary doughnut and enjoy a little moment of sweetness amidst the chaos of the REAL ID.
