Arizona driver’s licenses are now officially Real ID compliant, meaning residents can use their licenses for domestic flights, entering federal facilities, and other official purposes. This compliance comes after years of preparation and coordination between the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission to enhance the security of state-issued identification cards. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, including requiring proof of identity and lawful status in the United States.
Arizona began the process of becoming Real ID compliant in 2015, when Governor Doug Ducey signed legislation authorizing the state to begin issuing Real ID compliant licenses. Since then, ADOT has been working diligently to implement the necessary security features and verify the identity of all applicants.
To obtain a Real ID compliant driver’s license in Arizona, residents must provide certain documents to prove their identity, residential address, and lawful status in the United States. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate or passport, Social Security card or W-2 form, and two documents proving residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
Once the necessary documents have been submitted and verified, residents will receive a new driver’s license with a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that it is Real ID compliant. The new licenses will be issued upon renewal or when residents apply for a new license.
Having a Real ID compliant driver’s license is important for anyone who plans to fly domestically after October 1, 2021. Starting on that date, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all travelers to have a Real ID compliant form of identification in order to board a domestic flight.
In addition to being required for air travel, having a Real ID compliant driver’s license can also make it easier for residents to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases or nuclear power plants. The enhanced security features of Real ID compliant licenses help to verify an individual’s identity and prevent fraud.
ADOT has been working to spread awareness of the Real ID requirements and encourage residents to obtain their compliant licenses before the deadline. The department has held informational sessions, created online resources, and partnered with local organizations to help residents understand the process and gather the necessary documents.
Overall, the response to Arizona becoming Real ID compliant has been positive, with many residents appreciating the added security features and convenience of having a compliant license. As the deadline for Real ID compliance approaches, ADOT is urging all residents to take the necessary steps to obtain a compliant license and ensure they are prepared for future travel and federal requirements.
In conclusion, Arizona driver’s licenses are now officially Real ID compliant, allowing residents to use their licenses for domestic flights, entering federal facilities, and other official purposes. The process of becoming compliant has been years in the making, with ADOT working diligently to implement the necessary security features and verify the identity of all applicants. Residents are encouraged to obtain their Real ID compliant licenses before the October 1, 2021 deadline to ensure they are prepared for future travel and federal requirements.
