Starting September 1, 2021, residents of Texas will be required to update their driver’s licenses to comply with new regulations set by the Texas Department of Public Safety. The state issued a mandate that all driver’s licenses and identification cards must be REAL ID compliant in order to be used for federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings.
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the aim of establishing minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act requires all states to issue REAL ID-compliant licenses, which have enhanced security features to prevent fraud and counterfeiting.
Texas has been issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses since 2016, but many residents still have non-compliant licenses. To transition to a REAL ID-compliant license, residents will need to visit their local driver’s license office and provide certain documents to verify their identity, Social Security number, and residency. Acceptable documents include a passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Once the necessary documents are submitted, residents will need to take a new photo for their updated license. The cost of updating to a REAL ID-compliant license is the same as renewing a regular license, which is $33 for a six-year license. However, residents will also need to pay a $10 fee for the new card since the current one will be replaced.
It’s important to note that while a REAL ID-compliant license is required for federal purposes, it is not mandatory for everyday activities such as driving, voting, or accessing state services. Non-compliant licenses will still be valid for those activities, but residents will need to provide an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or military ID, when flying domestically or visiting federal facilities after the deadline.
The transition to REAL ID-compliant licenses is part of a broader effort by the Texas Department of Public Safety to enhance the security of state-issued identification. In addition to the new requirements for driver’s licenses, the department has also implemented stricter standards for obtaining and renewing concealed handgun licenses, as well as enhanced background checks for commercial driver’s license applicants.
While the process of updating to a REAL ID-compliant license may seem daunting, it is necessary to ensure the safety and security of all Texans. The new regulations will help prevent identity theft and fraud, as well as ensure that residents have the proper documentation to travel and access federal facilities.
To assist residents with the transition, the Texas Department of Public Safety has extended office hours at certain driver’s license offices and implemented online appointment scheduling for license renewals and updates. Residents can also visit the department’s website for a complete list of acceptable documents and more information on the REAL ID Act.
Overall, the change to REAL ID-compliant licenses is a positive step towards a more secure and efficient identification system in Texas. By complying with the new regulations, residents can ensure that they have the proper documentation to travel and access federal facilities, while also protecting their personal information from fraud and theft.
