Be warned! Year 2018 is going to see a few changes when it comes to domestic traveling in the US. State issued IDs like the drivers’ licenses are no longer going to be accepted at airports before boarding flights. Instead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has mandated that a more universal form of identification be utilized. This is following the Real ID Act that requires both state drivers’ licenses and ID cards follow federal technical standards and verification procedures issued by the Department of Homeland Security
While most states have complied with these requirements, there are a few that have sought an extension and have been given a grace period. See below to see which of the states have some additional time before which all residents have to ensure that they adhere to federal standards relating to card design and application processing.
States that have been granted an extension through October 10, 2018:
- Alaska
- California
- Idaho
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Montana
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Virginia
- Washington
States that have until October 2020:
- New York
- North Dakota
In order to apply, one will need to furnish a proof of birth date (passport or birth certificate), state residency (two documents) and Social Security card
These are to be original or certified documents establishing birth date, true full name, identity and/or legal presence.
If a compliant ID is not procured by the date stipulated for the state, a passport or federal ID will be necessary to board a plane. While some states allow applications online, others have to be applied for and picked up in person at their local DMV. Some states also charge $25 – $33 for this new ID card. The amount may vary in each state. Most state DMVs begin the application process starting January 22, 2018. And most residents should receive it by 2019. The others depending upon what extensions they have been given, will be notified about the deadlines by their DMV offices.
Residents of each state should contact their local DMV to verify the process of acquiring these ID cards.
