REAL ID Ready?
The federal REAL ID full enforcement deadline is creeping up, and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services division (DPS-DVS) wants Minnesotans to know their options, so they’re prepared.
Beginning October 1, Minnesotans will not be able to use their standard driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. Instead, they will need one of three options:
1. A passport or passport card.
2. A REAL ID.
3. An enhanced driver’s license or ID.
The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) lists several other less-common forms of identification that are also acceptable for federal purposes.
Those who aren’t sure which license type is right for them can use the online Help Me Choose a License/ID Type tool at drive.mn.gov.
Apply for a REAL ID
A REAL ID is optional. Minnesotans may apply for a REAL ID when they renew their license or ID card or apply for a REAL ID early for an additional fee.
Those who choose to apply for a REAL ID or enhanced driver’s license or ID card are strongly encouraged to pre-apply online at drive.mn.gov before completing the application process in person at a DVS exam station, deputy registrar, or driver’s license office.
Federal and Minnesota laws require a person to submit their original required documents, pass a vision screening and have a new photo taken to complete their application.
Pre-applying online is the best way to make sure applicants have everything they need before they visit a driver’s license office. This feature allows Minnesotans to enter a significant portion of their application online, reducing the time they spend in the office. It also lists the required documents for each license type so applicants can have all necessary documents ready when they visit their local office.
Renew Early
When renewing early, four years will be added to the license or ID card’s original expiration date, so while an early renewal will cost a little more, the license or ID card will be valid for a longer period of time. The early renewal option is only for those who renewed their Minnesota driver’s license or ID card before REAL IDs were available on October 1, 2018. Their licenses must also expire after the full enforcement date of October 1, 2021.
REAL ID Resources
DPS-DVS has a variety of resources online at REALID.dps.mn.gov.
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