In the wake of the Real ID Act being passed by Congress in 2005, many Americans are now scrambling to obtain their Real ID compliant cards before the October 1, 2021 deadline. The Real ID Act was passed in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of increasing security measures for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act requires that all states must comply with certain security standards in order for their driver’s licenses and ID cards to be accepted by federal agencies for official purposes, such as boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
Getting a Real ID compliant card is not as simple as just walking into your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and asking for one. There are specific steps and documentation that you must provide in order to prove your identity and residency.
The first step in obtaining a Real ID compliant card is to gather the necessary documents. You will need to provide proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, such as your Social Security card, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. It is important to note that photocopies of these documents will not be accepted – you must provide original or certified copies.
Once you have gathered all of the necessary documents, you can then make an appointment at your local DMV to apply for your Real ID compliant card. It is highly recommended that you make an appointment in advance, as walk-in appointments may not be available due to high demand.
During your appointment, you will need to present your documents to the DMV clerk for verification. You will also need to fill out an application form and have your photo taken for your new ID card. There may be a fee associated with obtaining a Real ID compliant card, so be sure to bring a form of payment with you to your appointment.
After your application has been processed and approved, you will receive your new Real ID compliant card in the mail within a few weeks. It is important to keep in mind that the Real ID Act deadline is fast approaching, so it is crucial to begin the process of obtaining your Real ID compliant card as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute rush.
In conclusion, obtaining a Real ID compliant card is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some preparation and documentation. By following the steps outlined above and making an appointment at your local DMV, you can ensure that you will be able to board domestic flights and access federal buildings without any issues after the October 1, 2021 deadline. Remember to start the process early to avoid any potential delays and ensure that you have your new Real ID compliant card in hand before the deadline.
