If you’ve recently caught a flight or visited your local Department of Motor Vehicles, you’re ahead of the game. Transportation Security Administration and DMV’s have begun posting warning flyers about the new change in State Identification cards now referred to as “Real ID’s”
The change comes after what is called “The Real ID Act.” The Act will become effective starting Oct. 1, 2020.
Many students were unaware of the change in state identification. Tre Reid, a junior Pre-Occupational Therapy student, was one of those shocked by the news.
“I didn’t even hear about it until now,” Reid said, “It’s shocking because I travel back to Honduras yearly, so it would’ve been nice if they advertised this change a little more.”
The advertising aspect of the new change has been nearly nonexistent due to its relevance to airline passengers only. The Act only affects those interested in traveling by way of aircrafts whether business or commercial.
It does not affect you if you use your ID solely for the purpose of being identified, driving, or if you bring your passport during flights.
The act was passed by Congress in 2005.
According to the “UpgradedPoints” article on The Real ID Act, The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. It was created in response to the tragedy on September 11, 2019 in hopes of putting a stop to airline terrorism.
What does this mean for me when I apply for a new license or when I need mine replaced? When applying for a new license, more documents will be required at your local Department of Motor Vehicles such as proof of residency and Social Security card.
In most states, the Real ID has a new look including a star in the right corner of the card. States without this new mark are Hawaii, Ohio, Tennessee, and Utah. The cards are also now made with new technology in hopes of making the creation of fake ID’s nearly impossible.
In certain areas, Fake ID’s created for underage people was a trend at an all-time high.
Kiera Mitchell, a junior Accounting student from Pensacola, Florida, was a first-hand witness to the easy accessibility of fake duplicated ID’s.
“It was a normal thing for classmates and some friends of mine to have fake ID’s to get into clubs or for other uses,” said Mitchell.
Although the Real ID Act only applies to those flying without a passport, it’s still better to be safe than sorry.
For more information on the Real ID Act or how to receive one form your local Department of Motor Vehicles, visit https://www.tsa.gov/real-id.