Cost for Real ID Driver License
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to standardize identification documents issued by state governments. This was in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to improve homeland security by creating more secure driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Real ID Act set minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibited federal agencies from accepting documents that do not meet these standards for official purposes.
One of the key provisions of the Real ID Act is that by October 1, 2020, all U.S. citizens will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities that require identification. This means that if you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card by October 1, 2020, you will not be able to use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility that requires identification.
Obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card comes with a cost. The cost for a Real ID driver’s license varies from state to state, but on average, it is around $30 to $60. This cost includes the application fee, which covers the cost of processing your application, taking your photo, and producing your new driver’s license or identification card.
In addition to the application fee, there are other costs associated with obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. For example, you may need to provide additional documentation to prove your identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. You may also need to pass a vision test, written test, and driving test. These additional costs can add up, especially if you need to retake a test or provide multiple forms of documentation.
Some states offer discounts or fee waivers for certain groups of people, such as seniors, veterans, or individuals with disabilities. These discounts and fee waivers can help reduce the cost of obtaining a Real ID driver’s license for eligible individuals. However, not all states offer these discounts or fee waivers, so it is important to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to see if you qualify for any discounts or fee waivers.
It is important to note that the cost of obtaining a Real ID driver’s license or identification card is a one-time fee. Once you have obtained your Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, it will be valid for several years, depending on your state’s renewal cycle. The cost to renew your Real ID driver’s license or identification card will vary from state to state, but on average, it is around $25 to $50.
In conclusion, the cost for a Real ID driver’s license or identification card can vary depending on where you live and your individual circumstances. It is important to budget for these costs and plan ahead to ensure that you have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card by the October 1, 2020 deadline. If you have any questions about the cost or process of obtaining a Real ID driver’s license, be sure to contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for more information.
