Pennsylvania Introduces New Secure Driver’s License to Combat Fraud
Harrisburg, PA – In an effort to enhance security measures and combat identity theft, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced the introduction of a new secure driver’s license for residents of the state. The new license, which features advanced security features and enhanced technology, aims to protect Pennsylvania residents from fraud and ensure the integrity of the state’s driver’s license system.
The new secure driver’s license, known as the PA Real ID, will be issued to all Pennsylvania residents who apply for or renew their driver’s license or identification card. The PA Real ID is part of a nationwide initiative to improve the security of state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. The initiative was established by the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
“We are committed to ensuring the security of our driver’s license system and protecting Pennsylvania residents from identity theft and fraud,” said PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards. “The introduction of the PA Real ID is a significant step forward in enhancing the security of our state’s identification cards and driver’s licenses.”
The PA Real ID features a number of advanced security features, including a holographic image overlay, ultraviolet printing, and laser engraving. These security features make it difficult for counterfeiters to replicate the license and ensure that it is tamper-proof. In addition, the PA Real ID includes a barcode and a magnetic stripe that contain the cardholder’s biometric and biographical information, making it easier for law enforcement officers and other officials to verify the cardholder’s identity.
To obtain a PA Real ID, Pennsylvania residents will need to visit a PennDOT driver’s license center and provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States. The cost of the PA Real ID is $30, in addition to the standard driver’s license or identification card fee. Residents who already have a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or identification card can upgrade to the PA Real ID by paying a $30 upgrade fee.
Pennsylvania residents who do not have a PA Real ID will still be able to use their current driver’s license or identification card for driving, identification, and other purposes. However, starting on October 1, 2021, the PA Real ID will be required for boarding domestic flights, entering federal facilities, and accessing certain secure federal facilities. Residents who do not have a PA Real ID by this date may need to use another form of identification, such as a passport, to board a domestic flight.
“We encourage all Pennsylvania residents to obtain a PA Real ID as soon as possible to ensure that they have the proper identification for travel and other purposes,” said Secretary Richards. “The PA Real ID is a secure and reliable form of identification that will help protect you from identity theft and fraud.”
In addition to the PA Real ID, PennDOT is also introducing a new online driver’s license renewal system that will allow residents to renew their driver’s license or identification card online. The online renewal system is designed to make it easier and more convenient for residents to renew their driver’s license or identification card without having to visit a driver’s license center in person.
“We understand that renewing your driver’s license can be a hassle, which is why we are introducing the online renewal system to make the process more convenient for Pennsylvania residents,” said Secretary Richards. “With the new online renewal system, residents can renew their driver’s license or identification card from the comfort of their own home, saving time and effort.”
PennDOT is also working with law enforcement agencies and other partners to implement a public awareness campaign to educate Pennsylvania residents about the new PA Real ID and the importance of securing their driver’s license. The campaign will include informational materials, social media posts, and outreach events to ensure that residents are aware of the new secure driver’s license and how to obtain it.
“We are committed to ensuring that Pennsylvania residents have the information they need to obtain the PA Real ID and protect themselves from identity theft and fraud,” said Secretary Richards. “We encourage all residents to take advantage of this new secure driver’s license and ensure that they have the proper identification for travel and other purposes.”
For more information about the PA Real ID and how to obtain it, Pennsylvania residents can visit the PennDOT website or contact their local driver’s license center. Residents who have questions about the new secure driver’s license can also call the PennDOT customer service line for assistance.
The introduction of the PA Real ID is part of PennDOT’s ongoing efforts to enhance the security of the state’s driver’s license system and protect Pennsylvania residents from identity theft and fraud. The new secure driver’s license is designed to provide residents with a reliable and secure form of identification that will help them travel, conduct business, and access secure facilities with confidence.
