NH Enhanced Driver’s License Now Available for Residents
Residents of New Hampshire can now apply for an enhanced driver’s license, which provides additional benefits and security features compared to a standard driver’s license. The New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles announced the availability of the enhanced driver’s license as part of their efforts to enhance the security of state-issued identification documents.
The enhanced driver’s license, also known as Real ID-compliant license, contains a gold star in the top right corner to indicate that the holder has provided their identification documents to verify their identity. This additional verification process makes the enhanced driver’s license compliant with the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
One of the main benefits of having an enhanced driver’s license is that it can be used for domestic air travel within the United States. Starting in October 2020, all travelers will be required to present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another form of acceptable identification, such as a passport or military ID, to board a domestic flight. The enhanced driver’s license serves as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to carrying a passport for domestic travel.
In addition to being valid for domestic air travel, the enhanced driver’s license can also be used to enter federal facilities that require identification, such as military bases, nuclear power plants, and certain federal buildings. This provides added convenience for residents who need to access these facilities for work or other purposes.
To apply for an enhanced driver’s license in New Hampshire, residents must visit their local DMV office and provide the necessary documentation to verify their identity, residency, and citizenship. The DMV requires applicants to submit original or certified copies of documents such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of New Hampshire residency. Once the application is submitted, applicants will need to have their photo taken and pay a fee for the enhanced driver’s license.
The process of obtaining an enhanced driver’s license is similar to applying for a standard driver’s license but with additional documentation requirements. The DMV conducts a thorough review of the applicant’s documents to ensure that they meet the Real ID standards set by the federal government. This helps to prevent identity theft and fraud by verifying the authenticity of the documents submitted by applicants.
The enhanced driver’s license is a secure form of identification that includes features such as a tamper-resistant design, barcodes, and holographic images to prevent counterfeiting. It also includes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip that stores the holder’s information electronically, providing an added layer of security and convenience for verification purposes.
Residents who are interested in obtaining an enhanced driver’s license should plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the application process, as it may take several weeks to receive the new license in the mail. The DMV recommends that applicants apply for the enhanced driver’s license well in advance of any upcoming travel plans to ensure they have the necessary identification in time.
Overall, the introduction of the enhanced driver’s license in New Hampshire offers residents a more secure and convenient form of identification for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities. By complying with the Real ID Act, the state is taking important steps to enhance the security of state-issued identification documents and protect residents from identity theft and fraud. Residents who are interested in obtaining an enhanced driver’s license can visit their local DMV office for more information on the application process and requirements.
