What Does a Star on a Driver’s License Mean?
If you’ve recently renewed your driver’s license, you may have noticed a new addition – a gold star on the front of the card. But what does this star actually mean? And how does it affect your driving privileges?
The star on a driver’s license is a symbol that indicates that the license is Real ID compliant. The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of improving the security of state-issued identification documents. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, including the use of features such as the gold star to signify compliance.
To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, applicants need to provide additional documentation beyond what was previously required for a standard license. This documentation typically includes proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Applicants may also be required to present documents showing any name changes, such as marriage certificates or court orders.
Once the necessary documentation has been provided and verified, the state will issue a driver’s license with a gold star on it, indicating that it is Real ID compliant. This new license will allow the holder to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities that require identification, without the need for a passport or other form of federal ID.
So, what does this mean for drivers who don’t have a star on their license? In most cases, it simply means that their current license is not Real ID compliant. While this won’t affect their ability to drive or use the license for everyday purposes, it may become an issue if they need to fly domestically or access federal facilities in the future.
The deadline for obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver’s license has been extended multiple times since the Act was passed, due to delays in implementation and concerns about compliance. The current deadline for full enforcement of the Real ID Act is October 1, 2021. After this date, individuals without a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or other form of acceptable federal identification will not be able to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.
To avoid any issues with travel or access to federal facilities, it’s important for drivers to check their current driver’s license and ensure that it is Real ID compliant. If it does not have a gold star on it, they will need to visit their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and provide the necessary documentation to obtain a Real ID-compliant license.
In conclusion, the star on a driver’s license is a symbol that indicates the license is Real ID compliant, meaning it meets the minimum security standards set by the federal government. While not having a Real ID-compliant license won’t impact a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle, it may become an issue if they need to fly domestically or access federal facilities. With the deadline for full enforcement of the Real ID Act fast approaching, now is the time for drivers to ensure their license is up to date and compliant.
