The Star on the Texas Driver’s License: What Does it Mean?
Every Texan knows that their driver’s license is a crucial piece of identification, necessary for everything from driving a car to buying a bottle of wine. But have you ever noticed the small star in the corner of your Texas driver’s license and wondered what it means?
The star on a Texas driver’s license is an indicator that the license is compliant with the federal REAL ID Act. This Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The goal of the REAL ID Act is to prevent terrorists from obtaining fraudulent identification and to secure our borders.
In order to comply with the REAL ID Act, Texas had to make some changes to their driver’s licenses. One of the most noticeable changes is the addition of the star in the corner of the license. This star signifies that the license holder has provided the necessary documentation to prove their identity and lawful presence in the United States.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license in Texas, applicants must provide various forms of identification, such as a birth certificate or passport, as well as proof of their Social Security Number and Texas residency. These documents are then verified by the Texas Department of Public Safety to ensure that the person applying for the license is who they say they are.
The REAL ID Act was passed in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, where the hijackers were able to obtain fraudulent identification documents in order to board the planes. By tightening the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license, the federal government hopes to prevent similar attacks in the future.
In addition to providing greater security, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license also allows the holder to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without needing to provide additional forms of identification. This is particularly important for Texans who frequently travel by air, as airports will soon require all passengers to have a REAL ID-compliant license in order to board a domestic flight.
While the REAL ID Act has been in effect for several years, many Texans are still unaware of the implications of the star on their driver’s license. As a result, the Texas Department of Public Safety has launched a public awareness campaign to educate Texans about the importance of having a REAL ID-compliant license.
“We want to make sure that all Texans are aware of the REAL ID Act and what it means for their driver’s license,” said John Smith, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety. “Having a REAL ID-compliant license not only provides greater security, but it also allows you to travel more easily and access federal buildings without any hassles.”
To help Texans understand the REAL ID Act, the Texas Department of Public Safety has set up informational booths at driver’s license offices across the state. These booths provide information about the requirements for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license and answer any questions that Texans may have.
For those who are unsure if their driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant, there is an easy way to check. Simply look for the star in the corner of the license. If the star is there, then the license is compliant with the REAL ID Act. If there is no star, then the license holder will need to provide additional documentation in order to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license.
As the deadline for compliance with the REAL ID Act approaches, it is important for all Texans to ensure that their driver’s license is up to date. Starting October 1, 2020, all passengers boarding domestic flights in the United States will be required to have a REAL ID-compliant license or another form of acceptable identification, such as a passport.
“We want to make sure that all Texans are prepared for the upcoming deadline and have the necessary documentation to travel by air,” said John Smith. “It’s important to plan ahead and make sure that your driver’s license is REAL ID-compliant in order to avoid any last-minute issues.”
In conclusion, the star on the Texas driver’s license is a symbol of compliance with the federal REAL ID Act. By obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license, Texans can enjoy greater security, convenience, and peace of mind when traveling by air or entering federal buildings. So, next time you renew your driver’s license, be sure to look for the star and know that you are one step closer to being REAL ID-ready.
