Georgia Residents Encouraged to Update Driver’s Licenses to Meet New Requirements
As of January 1, 2021, Georgia residents are being urged to update their driver’s licenses to comply with new state requirements. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) has announced that all residents must update their licenses to the new, more secure design by the end of 2021 to ensure they meet federal standards.
The new licenses feature enhanced security features, including a gold star in the top right corner and a barcode on the back. These features are part of the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to growing concerns about identity theft and terrorism. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
Georgia is one of several states that have been granted an extension to comply with the Real ID Act, but that extension is set to expire at the end of 2021. After that date, anyone without a Real ID-compliant license will not be able to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities without additional identification.
In addition to the new security features, the updated Georgia licenses also include a digital watermark, raised printing, and laser engraving to prevent tampering or counterfeiting. The DDS has also implemented new verification procedures to ensure that only eligible residents receive the new licenses.
To update their licenses, Georgia residents must visit a DDS Customer Service Center and present the following documents:
– Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
– Proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form
– Proof of Georgia residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
Residents will also need to pay a fee of $32 for a standard driver’s license or $57 for an enhanced driver’s license, which can be used for border crossings and other federal purposes.
The DDS has made special accommodations for residents who are unable to visit a Customer Service Center in person due to health concerns or other reasons. These residents can request a temporary renewal by mail, which will allow them to continue driving while they make arrangements to update their licenses in person.
In a statement, DDS Commissioner Spencer R. Moore emphasized the importance of updating licenses to meet the new requirements. “Ensuring the security of our residents’ identities is our top priority,” Moore said. “We urge all Georgia residents to take the necessary steps to update their driver’s licenses and comply with the Real ID Act.”
Many Georgia residents have already begun the process of updating their licenses, but some are encountering challenges along the way. Long wait times at Customer Service Centers, limited appointment availability, and confusion about the new requirements have frustrated some residents.
“I’ve been trying to update my license for weeks, but every time I go to a Customer Service Center, the line is out the door,” said Sarah Johnson, a resident of Atlanta. “It’s frustrating to think that I might not be able to fly or enter federal buildings if I don’t get this done by the end of the year.”
To address these concerns, the DDS has expanded its hours of operation, hired additional staff, and launched a new online appointment system to streamline the process of updating licenses. The agency has also partnered with community organizations to raise awareness about the new requirements and provide assistance to residents who may need help navigating the process.
Despite these challenges, many Georgia residents recognize the importance of updating their licenses to comply with the Real ID Act. “I know it’s a hassle, but it’s worth it to have a more secure license,” said John Davis, a resident of Savannah. “I want to make sure my identity is protected and that I can continue to travel and access federal facilities without any issues.”
As the deadline to update licenses draws nearer, the DDS is encouraging all Georgia residents to take action as soon as possible. By updating their licenses now, residents can avoid potential disruptions to their travel plans and ensure they have the necessary identification to comply with federal requirements.
For more information about updating driver’s licenses in Georgia, residents can visit the DDS website or contact their nearest Customer Service Center. By taking the necessary steps to comply with the Real ID Act, Georgia residents can protect their identities and ensure they have the proper identification for all of their future travels and activities.
