D.C. residents will soon need a mandatory star on their driver’s license proving that it is a REAL ID credential to be permitted to board a domestic flight by showing it as of October 1, 2020, according to a report in Patch.
If you are unable to present an alternative identification such as a valid passport or military ID card, the star on the license is required before boarding an airplane. The REAL IDs are optional and not needed for driving or at the time of casting your vote.
The REAL ID is also obligatory to enter federal offices or military installations unless you can provide another approved form of identification.
The REAL ID Act was passed after the September 11 terrorist attacks as a measure to maintain security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. It will be necessary to show upgraded REAL IDs from October 1, 2020, onward.
Upon receiving a new license at the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, individuals have the options of upgrading to a REAL ID or keep a standard driver’s license.
An original or certified copy of a birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport is asked for identification. A Social Security card, W-2 form, proof of legal name changes, and two proofs of address, including vehicle registration, insurance card or bank statement are also needed.
After October 1, 2020, travelers will not be allowed into the checkpoints by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers if they fail to show a REAL ID license or another form of acceptable ID.
You can apply for pre-verification on the REAL ID FAQs page which also has specific information on the required documents.
Visit D.C. DMV REAL ID page for more information.
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