Krispy Kreme is turning a typically dull government deadline into a delicious celebration by handing out free Original Glazed doughnuts to everyone on Tuesday, May 7.
Why May 7 Matters—And How Krispy Kreme Is Sweetening the Stress
May 7, 2025 is the long-awaited federal REAL ID enforcement deadline—the day U.S. travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings. After years of extensions, it’s finally here, bringing with it a wave of confusion, last-minute DMV visits, and general stress for Americans who haven’t yet upgraded their IDs.
But Krispy Kreme is stepping in to ease the tension. Rather than letting the day be all about forms and frustration, the brand is offering a free Original Glazed doughnut to all guests. It’s their sweet way of spreading some joy when everyone could use a break from the paperwork.
It’s no surprise Krispy Kreme is bringing its signature soft, pillowy, glaze-covered treats to the rescue. Few things offer the comfort of a warm doughnut, and Krispy Kreme has long been known for spreading happiness during major moments. From Election Day to Fat Tuesday, the bakery has made a habit of sweet giveaways, and May 7 is just the latest opportunity to make the day a little less stressful.
How To Get Your Free Doughnut at Krispy Kreme on May 7
Getting your hands on a free Original Glazed doughnut from Krispy Kreme on May 7 is easy—and best of all, no ID is required! Here’s what you need to do:
- Head to a participating Krispy Kreme location: Visit any participating Krispy Kreme store near you on May 7, 2025.
- No purchase necessary: Simply walk in, and you’ll be treated to a free Original Glazed doughnut, no questions asked.
- No ID Required: You don’t even need to show your REAL ID (or any ID for that matter) to claim your treat.
- Enjoy the sweet treat: Even if you’ve already got your REAL ID, Krispy Kreme will still treat you to a free doughnut. Whether you’re letting the stress of last-minute preparations melt away or rewarding yourself for being ahead of the game with your ID already in hand, Krispy Kreme has you covered.
“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,” said Dave Skena, Chief Growth Officer of Krispy Kreme, 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.”
The offer is for one free Original Glazed doughnut per guest.
What Is REAL ID?
In case you didn’t know, REAL ID is a U.S. federal law that sets minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission’s recommendations, REAL ID aims to make identification documents more secure and less vulnerable to tampering and fraud.
Starting on May 7, 2025, federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as proof of identity at airport security checkpoints (for domestic flights) and for accessing certain federal facilities if they meet these REAL ID security standards.
Key features of a REAL ID-compliant card include:
- A star marking: Typically located in the upper portion of the card, indicating it meets federal requirements.
- Enhanced security features: These vary by state but can include things like microprinting, holograms, and specific card materials to prevent counterfeiting.
- Proof of identity and residency: When applying for a REAL ID, individuals are required to provide documentation proving their identity, lawful presence in the U.S., Social Security number (if applicable), and two proofs of address.
Essentially, REAL ID aims to create a more secure national identification system to enhance security and prevent terrorism. After May 7, 2025, if your state-issued driver’s license or ID card is not REAL ID-compliant (and you don’t have another acceptable form of federal identification like a passport), you won’t be able to use it to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings.
Source: AllRecipes