In a world where identification and security are becoming increasingly important, many states are beginning to offer enhanced driver’s licenses (EDL) as an option for their residents. These specialized licenses not only serve as a standard form of identification but also allow for easier cross-border travel. But does Georgia have an enhanced driver’s license?
As of now, Georgia does not offer an enhanced driver’s license to its residents. However, discussions have been ongoing within the state government to potentially implement this option in the future. An enhanced driver’s license is a more secure form of identification that meets the requirements of the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 to improve the security of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
The REAL ID Act sets minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards. This includes boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, entering federal facilities, and accessing certain nuclear power plants.
Many states have already started issuing enhanced driver’s licenses to their residents in order to comply with the REAL ID Act and ensure that their residents can travel and access federal facilities without any issues. These licenses typically feature advanced security measures such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, which allows border agents to scan the license and quickly verify the holder’s identity and citizenship.
While Georgia does not currently offer an enhanced driver’s license, residents can still obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. REAL ID-compliant licenses and identification cards have special markings to indicate that they meet the requirements of the REAL ID Act and are acceptable for federal purposes. These licenses are issued by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) and require applicants to provide additional documentation to verify their identity and residency.
To apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card in Georgia, residents must visit a DDS Customer Service Center and present documentation such as a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate, Social Security card, and two proofs of Georgia residency. The cost of a REAL ID-compliant license is the same as a standard license, but residents must pay a one-time $5 issuance fee in addition to the regular licensing fee.
While an enhanced driver’s license is not currently available in Georgia, residents can still obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card to ensure that they can travel and access federal facilities without any problems. It is important for Georgia residents to be aware of the requirements of the REAL ID Act and to take the necessary steps to obtain a compliant license or identification card if they plan to travel domestically or visit federal facilities in the future.
