Secretary Of State Advising Everyone Of Coming REAL ID Requirements

realid34

The Michigan Secretary of State is advising everyone that new and enhanced REAL IDs will be needed to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities starting next year. Secretary of State spokesperson Shawn Starkey tells WSJM News federal legislation approved in response to the 911 attacks will make those REAL IDs necessary starting October 1 of 2020. You’ll need your birth certificate or a passport to get these enhanced IDs.

“They want to make sure that they have proof of a person’s identity and residency and their citizenship or illegal presence,” Starkey said. “Also, the standards for these cards help to prevent illegal copying or altering.”

Starkey says in most cases, it won’t cost anything to get a REAL ID.

“If you are coming in during your regular time every four years to renew your license, there is no additional fee to have a REAL ID-compliant license.”

Otherwise, they’ll be $9. The REAL IDs are marked with a gold circle with a star inside. To apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card, bring your passport or certified birth certificate with a raised seal or stamp to any Secretary of State branch office. You can find more information about the REAL IDs right here.