There’s been a lot of discussion about Minnesotans getting a REAL ID. Passed in 2005, the federal REAL ID Act aims to tighten security standards around driver’s licenses and state-issued ID cards.
Applying for a REAL ID compliant card requires additional documentation compared to the requirements for a standard Minnesota driver's license.
A person must provide the following in person when applying:
- One document proving identity, date of birth and legal presence in the United States
- If the name on the identity document is not the same as a person's current name, a name change document must be submitted.
- One document proving social security number.
- Two documents proving residence in Minnesota.
Beginning October 1, 2020, the federal government will require a REAL ID, an enhanced driver’s license, a passport card or a passport book for a person to board commercial aircrafts or to enter federal facilities or nuclear power plants.
This October, the Roseville License Center will be accepting applications for REAL ID and Enhanced driver’s licenses and identification cards. Many people are asking whether they need to get a REAL ID and/or an Enhanced driver’s license or identification card.
There are many factors to determine which driver’s license or identification card will work best for you. If you’re planning air travel, you’ll be able to use your current driver’s license or identification card until 2020 since the state is on track to issue REAL ID-compliant cards later this year. If you have a passport card or passport book and plan to keep it current, you do not need a REAL ID.
A REAL ID-compliant card is optional and is not needed for the following:
- Being licensed to drive.
- Voting or registering to vote.
- Entering federal facilities that do not require a person to present identification.
- Applying or receiving federal benefits.
- Accessing health or life-preserving services (including hospitals and health clinics), law enforcement or constitutionally protected activities (including a defendant's access to court proceedings).
- Participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigations.
Residents are encouraged to contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety at dps.mn.gov or call 651-297-3298 to learn more about REAL ID.