In recent years, the terms “Real ID” and “enhanced driver’s license” have caused confusion among many individuals. Both types of identification serve as important forms of identification verification, but they are not interchangeable. It is essential to understand the differences between the two to ensure compliance with federal regulations and state laws.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as a response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These standards aim to enhance the security and integrity of state-issued forms of identification to prevent identity theft and fraud.
A Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card has a gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner. This star indicates that the card meets the minimum security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. To obtain a Real ID-compliant card, individuals must provide various documents to prove their identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and address. These documents are verified by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles before issuing the card.
On the other hand, an enhanced driver’s license is a state-issued form of identification that not only meets the requirements of the Real ID Act but also allows for additional privileges. Enhanced driver’s licenses are available in a select number of states and are designed for individuals who frequently travel across the US-Canada border or by sea.
In addition to serving as a Real ID-compliant form of identification, an enhanced driver’s license contains an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. This chip enables individuals to use their enhanced driver’s license as a passport card for land and sea travel between the US, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. This added functionality streamlines the travel process for frequent cross-border travelers and eliminates the need for a separate passport card.
It is important to note that while a Real ID-compliant driver’s license is accepted for domestic air travel and other federal purposes, an enhanced driver’s license is only required for land and sea travel between the US, Canada, and other specified regions. Therefore, individuals who do not frequently travel across borders may not need an enhanced driver’s license and can opt for a Real ID-compliant card instead.
In summary, the Real ID and enhanced driver’s license are not the same. While both types of identification comply with the Real ID Act, an enhanced driver’s license offers additional privileges for cross-border travelers. Individuals should carefully consider their travel habits and needs when determining whether to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or an enhanced driver’s license. By understanding the differences between the two, individuals can ensure they have the appropriate form of identification for their purposes.
