Driver’s licenses and Real IDs: Understanding the Differences
As technology advances and the world becomes increasingly digital, the way we prove our identity has also evolved. In the United States, one of the most common forms of identification is a driver’s license. However, in recent years, a new form of identification has emerged known as the Real ID. But what exactly is the difference between a driver’s license and a Real ID?
First, let’s start with the basics. A driver’s license is a government-issued document that allows an individual to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It also serves as a form of identification, providing information such as the individual’s name, date of birth, address, and a photograph. Driver’s licenses are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in each state, and the requirements for obtaining one can vary from state to state.
On the other hand, a Real ID is a type of driver’s license or identification card that meets federal standards for security and identification. It was created as a result of the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The purpose of the Real ID Act is to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards to help prevent identity theft and fraud.
So what makes a Real ID different from a regular driver’s license? The main difference is the level of security and verification required to obtain a Real ID. In order to get a Real ID, individuals must provide additional documentation to prove their identity, residency, and social security number. This can include documents such as a birth certificate, passport, utility bill, and social security card.
In contrast, obtaining a regular driver’s license typically requires less documentation and verification. In most cases, individuals only need to provide a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and pass a written and driving test. While driver’s licenses are still considered valid forms of identification, they may not meet the stricter security standards required for certain federal purposes.
One of the main benefits of having a Real ID is that it can be used for official federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights and entering secure federal facilities. Starting October 1, 2020, individuals will be required to have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card in order to board a domestic flight within the United States. This means that individuals with a regular driver’s license may need to obtain a Real ID if they plan on traveling by air after this date.
In addition to being required for air travel, a Real ID can also be used for purposes such as entering federal courthouses and military bases. This added layer of security can help prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing sensitive government facilities and information.
While obtaining a Real ID may require more time and documentation than a regular driver’s license, the extra security measures can provide peace of mind for individuals who want to protect their identity and prevent fraud. By ensuring that their identification meets federal standards, individuals can have greater confidence in their ability to verify their identity in a variety of situations.
In conclusion, the main difference between a driver’s license and a Real ID lies in the level of security and verification required to obtain them. While a driver’s license is a standard form of identification issued by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, a Real ID is a federal-compliant form of identification that meets stricter security standards. With the deadline for Real ID compliance approaching, individuals should consider upgrading their driver’s licenses to Real IDs to ensure they can continue to travel and access federal facilities without any issues.
