Pennsylvania Real ID Driver’s License: Everything You Need to Know
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has recently announced the launch of the Real ID program for driver’s licenses in the state. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to enhance the security and integrity of identification documents, in compliance with the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005.
The Real ID program establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, in order to prevent unauthorized access to federal facilities and enhance national security. The program requires state governments to verify the identity of applicants, as well as their lawful presence in the United States, before issuing a Real ID-compliant license.
In Pennsylvania, residents have the option to apply for a Real ID driver’s license, or to simply renew their standard driver’s license without the Real ID designation. However, starting October 1, 2021, residents will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, a valid passport, or other acceptable forms of identification to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities.
To obtain a Pennsylvania Real ID driver’s license, residents will need to visit a PennDOT driver’s license center in person, and provide documentation to verify their identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and residency. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, Social Security card, and two proofs of Pennsylvania residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Applicants must also present any legal name change documents, such as a marriage certificate or court order, if applicable. Additionally, residents who have legally changed their name must provide documentation linking their current name to the one on their birth certificate or passport.
Once the documentation is verified, residents will have their photo taken, and their application will be processed. The Real ID driver’s license will be mailed to the resident within 15 business days. The cost of a Real ID-compliant license is the same as a standard license renewal fee, which is currently $30.50.
While the Real ID program is optional for Pennsylvania residents, PennDOT encourages residents to consider obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver’s license for added convenience and security. Real ID-compliant licenses are valid for four years and can be used for federal identification purposes, such as boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities.
Residents who do not wish to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license can still renew their standard license or obtain a non-compliant ID card for other purposes. However, starting October 1, 2021, these documents will not be accepted for federal identification purposes, and residents will need a Real ID-compliant license, valid passport, or other acceptable forms of identification.
PennDOT has also implemented additional security measures to prevent fraud and identity theft in the Real ID program. Applicants are required to provide original or certified copies of their supporting documents, and PennDOT staff will verify the authenticity of the documents before issuing a Real ID-compliant license.
Overall, the Pennsylvania Real ID driver’s license program is designed to enhance the security and integrity of identification documents, while providing residents with a convenient and reliable form of federal identification. Residents are encouraged to consider obtaining a Real ID-compliant license to ensure they can continue to access federal facilities and board domestic flights after October 1, 2021.
In conclusion, the Pennsylvania Real ID driver’s license program offers residents a secure and convenient form of federal identification, in compliance with the REAL ID Act. By obtaining a Real ID-compliant license, residents can ensure they will be able to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities after October 1, 2021. PennDOT encourages residents to consider the benefits of the Real ID program and to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license for added convenience and security.
