Arizona Travelers Urged to Obtain New REAL ID Driver’s License
As the deadline for the implementation of the REAL ID Act approaches, Arizona travelers are being urged to obtain the new federally compliant driver’s license to ensure they can continue to board domestic flights and access federal facilities without issue.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These standards include proof of identity, legal residency, and social security number, among others. Starting October 1, 2020, travelers will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.
For Arizona residents, this means obtaining a new driver’s license or identification card with a gold star in the upper right-hand corner. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has been issuing these new IDs since 2016, but many residents have yet to make the switch.
According to ADOT, only about 40% of Arizonans currently have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card. This leaves a significant portion of the population at risk of being turned away at airport security checkpoints or federal buildings come October 1.
To help expedite the process, ADOT has expanded hours at select offices and launched a mobile issuance program that visits remote areas to issue new IDs. Additionally, Arizona residents can now apply for a REAL ID online through ADOT’s website, though they will still need to visit a MVD office in person to complete the process.
For those who have yet to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, time is of the essence. With the October 1 deadline fast approaching, ADOT is urging travelers to act now to avoid potential disruptions to their travel plans.
In addition to the REAL ID Act, Arizona travelers should also be aware of other changes and requirements that may impact their ability to board flights or access certain federal facilities. For example, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently announced that it will require travelers to provide a driver’s license or other form of identification that complies with the REAL ID Act’s requirements, even for domestic flights.
This means that even if a traveler has a valid passport, they may still need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license when flying within the United States. While passports are still considered valid forms of identification for international travel, they may not be accepted for domestic flights after the October 1 deadline.
In light of these changes, Arizona residents are encouraged to take the necessary steps to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card as soon as possible. Failure to do so could result in delays or even denied entry at airports or federal facilities.
Furthermore, travelers should be aware that the process of obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license may require additional documentation beyond what is typically needed for a standard license. This includes items such as a birth certificate, social security card, and proof of residency.
While the process may seem daunting, ADOT is working to make it as convenient as possible for Arizona residents to obtain their new IDs. With expanded hours, mobile issuance locations, and online application options, there are plenty of resources available to help ensure a smooth transition to the new REAL ID-compliant driver’s license.
In conclusion, Arizona travelers should prioritize obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to avoid any issues when the October 1 deadline rolls around. By taking the necessary steps now, residents can ensure they are prepared for any upcoming travel plans and avoid any unexpected disruptions along the way.
