Are Real ID Driver’s Licenses Mandatory? What You Need to Know
As of October 1, 2020, all Americans will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities or military bases. This mandate was established by the Real ID Act of 2005, which requires states to implement stricter security measures for issuing driver’s licenses and identification cards.
The Real ID Act was passed in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of enhancing security and reducing the risk of identity theft. Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards are designed to be more secure and harder to counterfeit, making them a more reliable form of identification.
But what exactly is a Real ID, and how do you know if you have one? A Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card will have a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that it meets the security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security.
Obtaining a Real ID driver’s license requires more documentation than a standard driver’s license. In addition to proving your identity and residency, you will need to provide documentation of your Social Security number or proof of ineligibility for a Social Security number. This process can be more time-consuming and potentially more expensive than obtaining a standard driver’s license.
There are some exceptions to the Real ID requirement. For example, if you have a valid passport, passport card, or military ID, you do not need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. However, if you do not have one of these forms of identification, a Real ID-compliant driver’s license will be necessary.
Many states have already started issuing Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards, but some have faced challenges in meeting the October 1, 2020 deadline. The Department of Homeland Security has granted extensions to some states that have experienced delays in implementing the security measures required for Real ID compliance.
It is important to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to determine if your driver’s license or identification card is Real ID-compliant. If it is not, you will need to bring the necessary documentation to update your identification before the October 1, 2020 deadline.
There has been some controversy surrounding the Real ID Act, with some critics arguing that it infringes on privacy rights and creates a de facto national identification card. However, proponents of the law argue that it is necessary to enhance national security and prevent identity theft.
Ultimately, the decision to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license is a personal one. If you plan to fly domestically or enter federal facilities after October 1, 2020, it will be necessary to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification. Otherwise, you may risk being turned away at the airport or federal facility.
As the deadline approaches, it is important to be informed about the Real ID requirements and take the necessary steps to ensure that your driver’s license or identification card is compliant. Whether you choose to obtain a Real ID-compliant form of identification or not, being aware of the regulations and deadlines will help you avoid any potential issues when traveling or accessing federal facilities.
