New Jersey Residents Urged to Obtain Real ID Compliant ID Cards before Deadline
As the deadline for Real ID compliance approaches, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) is urging residents to ensure they have the necessary identification in order to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, sets new standards for the issuance of identification cards and driver’s licenses. These new standards are intended to enhance security and prevent identity theft.
The deadline for Real ID compliance is October 1, 2021. After this date, standard New Jersey driver’s licenses and identification cards will no longer be accepted for federal purposes. To be compliant with the Real ID Act, residents must obtain a Real ID compliant driver’s license or identification card, or they must provide an alternative form of acceptable identification, such as a passport or passport card.
To obtain a Real ID compliant identification card from the New Jersey MVC, residents must meet certain requirements. These requirements include providing proof of identity, proof of New Jersey residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of name change (if applicable). Acceptable forms of documentation for each requirement are outlined on the MVC website and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
In addition to meeting documentation requirements, residents must also visit an MVC agency in person to apply for a Real ID compliant card. This is due to the additional security measures required for Real ID cards, such as facial recognition technology and enhanced background checks. Residents should be prepared to wait in line and bring all necessary documentation with them to expedite the application process.
The New Jersey MVC is expecting a surge in applications as the October 1 deadline approaches. To help manage the increased demand, the MVC has extended hours at select agencies and expanded appointment availability for Real ID transactions. Residents are encouraged to make an appointment online or by phone to avoid long wait times at MVC agencies.
Despite the upcoming deadline, some New Jersey residents are still unaware of the Real ID requirements or have not yet taken steps to obtain a compliant ID card. In a recent survey conducted by the MVC, 30% of respondents reported that they were not aware of the Real ID Act and its implications. This lack of awareness could lead to difficulties for residents who need to access federal facilities or fly domestically after October 1.
To address this issue, the New Jersey MVC has launched a public information campaign to raise awareness about the Real ID Act and the steps residents must take to obtain a compliant ID card. The campaign includes informative advertisements on social media, radio, and television, as well as outreach to community organizations and local governments. The goal of the campaign is to ensure that all New Jersey residents have the information they need to comply with the Real ID Act before the deadline.
In addition to the public information campaign, the New Jersey MVC has also partnered with local organizations to provide assistance to residents who may face barriers to obtaining a Real ID compliant card. This assistance includes help with gathering necessary documentation, transportation to MVC agencies, and translation services for non-English speakers. By working together with community partners, the MVC aims to ensure that all New Jersey residents have access to the identification they need to navigate federal facilities and air travel after October 1.
As the deadline for Real ID compliance draws near, it is essential for New Jersey residents to take action to obtain a compliant ID card. By meeting the necessary requirements and following the application process outlined by the MVC, residents can ensure that they have the identification they need to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. For more information about Real ID requirements and how to apply for a compliant ID card, residents are encouraged to visit the New Jersey MVC website or contact their local MVC agency.
