In the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the United States government implemented a series of security measures to help prevent future acts of terrorism. One of these measures is the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 and establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of the Real ID Act and what it means for travelers and residents of the United States.
The Real ID Act sets strict requirements for the documents that must be presented to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. These requirements include proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. In addition, applicants must provide biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition scans, to confirm their identity.
The purpose of the Real ID Act is to improve the security of driver’s licenses and identification cards by ensuring that they can be trusted as valid forms of identification. The act also helps to prevent identity theft and fraud by making it more difficult for individuals to obtain fraudulent identification documents.
One of the main impacts of the Real ID Act is on air travel. Starting on May 3, 2023, passengers will be required to present a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, a valid U.S. passport, or another acceptable form of identification, such as a military ID or Global Entry card, to board a domestic flight. This means that travelers who do not have a Real ID-compliant form of identification may be turned away at the airport.
To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, individuals must apply in person at their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and provide the required documents. It is important to note that not all states are currently issuing Real ID-compliant licenses, so travelers should check with their state’s DMV to see if they need to obtain a new form of identification.
In conclusion, the Real ID Act is an important security measure that helps to ensure the validity of driver’s licenses and identification cards. While it may require some additional effort on the part of travelers and residents of the United States, it ultimately serves to enhance the safety and security of our nation. If you’re planning to travel by air, be sure to check if your state issues Real ID-compliant identification and begin the process of obtaining one if necessary.
May 7, 2025 is the new estabilished date everyone must have their real Id by this date.
