Wisconsin residents who are looking to upgrade their driver’s licenses to comply with the federal REAL ID Act have a few important deadlines to keep in mind. The federal law, which was passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, requires states to issue driver’s licenses that meet certain security standards in order to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.
In Wisconsin, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) began offering REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses in 2013. These licenses are marked with a small gold star in the upper right corner, indicating that they meet the federal security requirements. While these licenses are not mandatory for all residents, they will be necessary for anyone who plans to fly domestically or enter a federal building after October 1, 2020.
For Wisconsin residents who already have a standard driver’s license and wish to upgrade to a REAL ID, the process is relatively simple. They will need to visit their local DMV office and provide documentation to prove their identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and Wisconsin residency. This may include a birth certificate, Social Security card, and two proofs of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
Once all necessary documents have been submitted, residents will need to pay a fee of $15 to receive their new REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. They will also need to have their photo taken at the DMV office. The process can usually be completed in a single visit, but residents are encouraged to make an appointment ahead of time to avoid long wait times.
For residents who are renewing their driver’s licenses, it is recommended that they choose the REAL ID option when applying. This will ensure that they receive a compliant license that can be used for federal purposes. However, it is important to note that not all DMV locations in Wisconsin offer REAL ID services, so residents should check the DMV website or call ahead to find a location that does.
While the deadline for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license is still a few months away, officials are urging residents not to wait until the last minute to make the upgrade. The process can take some time, especially if residents do not have all the necessary documents on hand. By planning ahead and making an appointment early, residents can avoid the rush and ensure that they have the proper identification in time for the October 1 deadline.
In addition to driver’s licenses, Wisconsin residents can also obtain REAL ID-compliant identification cards from the DMV. These cards are available to residents who do not have a driver’s license, but still need an acceptable form of identification for federal purposes. The process for obtaining an identification card is similar to that for a driver’s license, requiring proof of identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and Wisconsin residency.
Overall, the transition to REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses in Wisconsin is going smoothly, with the majority of residents opting to make the upgrade before the October 1 deadline. By following the steps outlined by the DMV and planning ahead, residents can ensure that they have the proper identification to travel and access federal facilities without any issues. If you have any questions about the REAL ID process or need assistance with obtaining your new license, contact your local DMV office for more information.
