In the United States, the REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act aims to prevent identity theft and terrorism by increasing the security of driver’s licenses. Starting October 1, 2021, all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another form of acceptable identification to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
Many Americans are now asking themselves, “Do I need a REAL ID and a driver’s license?” The short answer is yes, if you plan to fly domestically or visit certain federal facilities. A REAL ID is not required for driving, voting, applying for federal benefits, entering a post office, accessing hospitals or receiving medical services, or participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigations. However, if you do not have a valid passport or another form of acceptable identification, a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card will be necessary for air travel within the United States or entry into federal buildings that require identification.
One common misconception is that a REAL ID is a separate form of identification from a driver’s license. In fact, a REAL ID is simply a designation on your state-issued driver’s license or ID card that indicates it meets the security standards established by the REAL ID Act. If you already have a driver’s license or ID card issued by your state that is REAL ID-compliant, you do not need to obtain a separate REAL ID card.
To determine if your current driver’s license or ID card is REAL ID-compliant, look for a star in the upper right corner of the card. This indicates that the card meets the requirements of the REAL ID Act. If your card does not have a star, you will need to visit your state’s department of motor vehicles to obtain a REAL ID-compliant card.
The process of obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card can vary by state, but generally, you will need to provide documentation of your identity, date of birth, social security number, and residency. Examples of acceptable documents include a birth certificate or passport, social security card or W-2 form, and two proofs of residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement. Check with your state’s department of motor vehicles for specific requirements and to schedule an appointment to apply for a REAL ID.
It is important to note that not all states are compliant with the REAL ID Act, and some have received extensions to become compliant. If you live in a state that is not yet compliant or has an extension, you may still be able to use your current driver’s license or ID card for domestic air travel until the enforcement deadline of October 1, 2021. However, it is recommended to obtain a REAL ID-compliant card as soon as possible to avoid any issues when the deadline approaches.
In addition to air travel, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card may also be required for entry into certain federal facilities such as military bases, nuclear facilities, and secure federal buildings. If you are unsure if a REAL ID is needed for a specific facility or event, it is best to check with the facility or event organizer in advance to determine their identification requirements.
In conclusion, while a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card is not required for all activities, it is necessary for domestic air travel and entry into certain federal facilities. If you do not have a passport or another form of acceptable identification, it is in your best interest to obtain a REAL ID as soon as possible to ensure you can travel or access federal facilities after October 1, 2021. Be sure to check if your current driver’s license or ID card is already REAL ID-compliant and if not, follow the necessary steps to obtain a REAL ID before the deadline.
