Is My Driver License a Real ID? Everything You Need to Know
As the October 1, 2021 deadline for the REAL ID Act quickly approaches, many Americans are left wondering if their driver’s license is a REAL ID. The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of increasing security by setting stricter standards for state-issued identification cards.
So, how can you tell if your driver’s license is a REAL ID? The most obvious way is to look for a star in the upper right-hand corner of your license. This star indicates that your license is compliant with the REAL ID Act and can be used for federal purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
If your license does not have a star, it is not a REAL ID and you will need to provide additional documentation to obtain one. This process can vary depending on the state you live in, but generally involves providing proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, proof of social security number, and proof of residency.
It is important to note that not all states are fully compliant with the REAL ID Act, meaning that some residents may need to obtain a passport or other form of federally-approved identification in order to fly domestically or enter certain federal facilities. To check if your state is compliant, you can visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website for a list of compliant states and territories.
If you are unsure if your driver’s license is a REAL ID, you can also contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for more information. They will be able to provide you with guidance on how to obtain a REAL ID and what documents you will need to bring with you.
In addition to the October 1, 2021 deadline, the COVID-19 pandemic has added an extra layer of complexity to the REAL ID process. Many DMVs have been closed or operating on limited hours, making it difficult for residents to obtain or renew their licenses. Some states have extended the deadline for REAL ID compliance, while others have implemented online renewal options to help alleviate the backlog of applications.
Overall, it is crucial for Americans to be proactive about obtaining a REAL ID if they plan on traveling domestically or visiting federal facilities in the future. With the deadline quickly approaching, now is the time to ensure that your driver’s license is compliant with the REAL ID Act to avoid any travel disruptions or inconveniences.
In conclusion, if you are unsure if your driver’s license is a REAL ID, take the time to check for the star in the upper right-hand corner and contact your state’s DMV for guidance. By being informed and proactive, you can ensure that you have the necessary identification to travel and access federal facilities with ease.
