In recent years, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Virginia has been working diligently to ensure that all residents of the state have a secure form of identification. This effort comes in the form of the Real ID, a government-issued form of identification that meets federal security requirements for boarding domestic flights and accessing federal facilities. As of October 2020, all Virginians are required to have a Real ID driver’s license or identification card in order to possess a valid form of identification.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the September 11th terrorist attacks, with the goal of improving the security of state-issued identification. The act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting forms of identification that do not meet these standards. The standards include features such as a star in the upper right corner of the card, holograms, and anti-counterfeiting measures.
For residents of Virginia, obtaining a Real ID driver’s license or identification card is a straightforward process. Individuals must visit their local DMV office and bring with them several documents to verify their identity, Social Security number, legal presence in the United States, and Virginia residency. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and two proofs of residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement. Once the documents have been verified, individuals must have their photograph taken and pay a fee to receive their Real ID card.
While the Real ID may initially seem like just another form of identification, it is a crucial tool for ensuring the security of our nation. By requiring residents to have a Real ID in order to board flights and access federal facilities, the government can better track and identify individuals who may pose a threat to national security. In an age of increased terrorism and identity theft, having a secure form of identification is more important than ever.
One of the key benefits of the Real ID is that it can be used for a variety of purposes beyond just boarding flights and accessing federal facilities. For example, the Real ID can be used as proof of identity when applying for a job, opening a bank account, or registering to vote. Having a Real ID driver’s license or identification card provides individuals with peace of mind knowing that they have a secure form of identification that is accepted by federal agencies and trusted by employers and other organizations.
In addition to the security benefits of the Real ID, there are also practical advantages for residents of Virginia. For example, having a Real ID driver’s license can make it easier to renew or update other forms of identification, such as a passport or Social Security card. The Real ID also serves as a convenient form of identification that can be used in place of carrying around multiple forms of ID.
Overall, the Real ID driver’s license is a valuable tool for residents of Virginia. By obtaining a Real ID, individuals can ensure that they have a secure form of identification that is accepted by federal agencies and trusted by employers and other organizations. With the deadline for obtaining a Real ID quickly approaching, it is important for residents to take the necessary steps to ensure that they have a valid form of identification. Whether it be for boarding flights, accessing federal facilities, or simply proving one’s identity, the Real ID driver’s license is a crucial piece of identification that all Virginians should possess.
