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By Aliss Higham
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The national deadline for Americans to obtain a REAL ID to use for travel an other purposes is fast approaching.
Newsweek has put together everything you need to know before next week's deadline.
Why It Matters
Starting next month, Americans and permanent residents will only be able to pass through airport security or enter a federal government building if they have a REAL ID or another valid form of identification, such as a passport.
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The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation for the federal government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses." As of May 7, the move is finally being fully implemented, nearly 20 years after the Act passed.
How To Get Real ID
When applying for or renewing your driver's license or state ID, you have the option to get one that is REAL ID-compliant.
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The process and required documents vary by state, but most state licensing agencies will ask you to bring the following:
- Proof of Identity: This can include a U.S. birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, or a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for non-U.S. citizens.
- Proof of Social Security Number: Acceptable documents include your Social Security card, a W-2 form showing your earnings, or a recent pay stub.
- Proof of State Residency: You may need to present documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, deed, or bank statement showing your name and current address.
Requirements vary from state-to-state. To check exactly what you need to become REAL ID compliant, you should visit your state's driver's licensing agency website.
How quickly you can get your ID depends on how long it takes for your state to issue a new license. This can take a number of weeks, so if you're planning to travel via air in the coming weeks while waiting for your new license, you'll need to take your passport with you to be able to board your flight.
How Do I Know if My ID Is REAL ID?
According to the Department of Homeland Security website, REAL IDs are indicated by a gold or blue star in the upper-right corner of the ID.
Most REAL IDS are issued by the DMV in the state where you live, like a driver's license or nondriver ID card.
Is REAL ID Optional?
If you want to fly domestically and don't have or want to carry your passport, you will need a REAL ID.
"Enhanced Driver's Licenses" (EDLs), which are issued in five U.S. states, are an exception to this.
"Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID–compliant cards, the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed. EDLs can be identified by an image of the U.S. flag and the word Enhanced at the top of the card.
Children under 18 will not be required to have a REAL ID when flying domestically with an adult companion who has an acceptable ID, according to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines.
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