The clock is ticking for millions of Americans who still need to upgrade their driver’s licenses to comply with the Real ID Act. The deadline for obtaining a Real ID driver’s license is fast approaching, with only a few months left for states to issue the new secure forms of identification. As of October 1, 2021, anyone without a Real ID driver’s license or other compliant form of identification will not be able to board a commercial flight or enter certain federal facilities.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of improving the security of state-issued identification documents. The Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, including proof of identity, proof of legal presence in the United States, and proof of residence in the state where the license or ID card is issued.
To obtain a Real ID driver’s license, individuals must visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or other state licensing agency and provide a variety of documents to prove their identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and two documents showing their current address. The process can be time-consuming and may require multiple trips to the DMV, especially if individuals do not have all the necessary documents on hand.
As the deadline approaches, DMVs across the country are reporting an influx of people seeking to upgrade their driver’s licenses to Real ID-compliant versions. Some states, such as California and New York, have extended their hours and added extra staff to accommodate the higher demand. However, long lines and wait times are still common at many DMV offices, leading to frustration and complaints from those trying to meet the deadline.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also posed challenges for states trying to implement the Real ID Act. Many DMV offices were closed or operating at reduced capacity during the height of the pandemic, leading to backlogs of appointments and delays in processing applications. Some states have had to seek extensions from the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the Real ID program, to give them more time to issue compliant licenses.
Despite these challenges, the deadline for obtaining a Real ID driver’s license is fast approaching, and individuals are being urged not to wait until the last minute to upgrade their licenses. Failure to comply with the Real ID Act could result in individuals being turned away at airport security checkpoints or federal buildings, leading to missed flights and appointments.
For those who have not yet upgraded their driver’s licenses to Real ID-compliant versions, there are a few options available. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, allowing individuals to get their new licenses more quickly. Others have mobile DMV units that travel to different locations to help residents get their Real IDs without having to visit a fixed office.
In addition to upgrading their driver’s licenses, individuals are also encouraged to consider other forms of compliant identification, such as a passport or passport card, to ensure they have alternate forms of ID that will be accepted after the deadline. Passports are valid for international travel and can also be used for domestic flights, making them a versatile option for those who frequently travel.
As the deadline for obtaining a Real ID driver’s license looms closer, it is essential for individuals to take action now to avoid potential disruptions in their travel plans. By gathering the necessary documents and visiting their local DMV office as soon as possible, individuals can ensure they have the proper identification needed to board a flight or enter a federal facility after October 1, 2021. Time is running out, so don’t delay – upgrade your license to a Real ID today.
