New Jersey residents will soon have to obtain a Real ID driver’s license in order to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings, as the state prepares to comply with federal regulations. The Real ID is a new security measure that was created in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and is designed to enhance the security of state-issued identification cards.
Starting October 1, 2020, New Jersey residents will not be able to use their standard driver’s license to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building that requires identification. In order to comply with the new regulations, residents will need to obtain a Real ID driver’s license, which is more secure and harder to counterfeit.
The Real ID driver’s license will feature a gold star in the top right corner, indicating that it is compliant with federal regulations. In order to obtain a Real ID, residents will need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport or birth certificate, to verify their identity. The process of obtaining a Real ID driver’s license is more stringent than the process for obtaining a standard driver’s license, but it is necessary in order to ensure the security of federal buildings and domestic flights.
Officials in New Jersey are urging residents to start the process of obtaining a Real ID as soon as possible, in order to avoid long lines and wait times closer to the October 2020 deadline. The state has set up several locations where residents can apply for a Real ID, and appointments can be made online for added convenience.
The Real ID driver’s license is just one of several new security measures that have been implemented in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. In addition to the Real ID, the federal government has also implemented programs such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry, which are designed to expedite the security screening process for travelers.
While some residents may be frustrated by the additional documentation required to obtain a Real ID driver’s license, officials stress that the new security measures are necessary in order to keep travelers safe. The Real ID driver’s license will make it more difficult for identity thieves and terrorists to impersonate legitimate travelers, and will help to ensure that only those who are authorized to fly are allowed to board domestic flights.
Overall, the implementation of the Real ID driver’s license in New Jersey is a positive step towards enhancing the security of state-issued identification cards. Residents are urged to start the process of obtaining a Real ID as soon as possible, in order to avoid any issues with boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings after the October 2020 deadline. With the new security measures in place, travelers can rest assured that their safety is being taken seriously by both state and federal officials.
