The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced a new deadline for individuals to add a star to their driver’s licenses in order to comply with the Real ID Act. The deadline, set for December 31st, 2022, requires all Americans to upgrade their driver’s licenses with a star symbol that indicates they have provided the necessary documentation to meet the federal requirements for Real ID compliance.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to enhance security measures for state-issued identification cards. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards for certain activities unless they meet these standards.
In order to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, individuals must provide documentation to prove their identity, Social Security number, and residency. This documentation includes a birth certificate or valid passport, a Social Security card or W-2 form, and two proofs of residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
The addition of a star symbol to the driver’s license indicates that the individual has provided the necessary documentation and has a Real ID-compliant license. This symbol is necessary for activities such as boarding a domestic flight or entering federal facilities where identification is required.
The deadline for adding a star to the driver’s license is fast approaching, and the DMV is urging all Americans to take action to ensure they are in compliance with the Real ID Act. Failure to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license by the deadline could result in individuals being denied access to certain federal facilities and transportation services.
To help expedite the process and avoid long wait times at the DMV, many states are offering online services for individuals to upload their documentation and receive a Real ID-compliant license in the mail. This option has been especially popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many DMV offices have experienced closures and limited hours of operation.
In addition to the deadline for adding a star to the driver’s license, the DMV is also reminding individuals to check the expiration date of their current license. Many states require individuals to renew their driver’s licenses every few years, and having an expired license could also result in being denied access to certain services.
Overall, the deadline for adding a star to the driver’s license is an important milestone in ensuring the security and safety of all Americans. By upgrading to a Real ID-compliant license, individuals can have peace of mind knowing that they have met the necessary requirements to access federal facilities and transportation services. Failure to comply with the deadline could result in inconvenience and potential denial of access, so it is important for all Americans to take action and upgrade their licenses as soon as possible.
