Pennsylvania will start enforcing the federal REAL ID law on Oct. 1 after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents who want want a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license and photo ID card are encouraged to act as quickly as possible so they receive their REAL ID before enforcement begins.
According to The Times Herald, PennDOT last week reminded citizens that a REAL ID will be needed for commercial domestic air travel and other federal purposes.
“Although October may seem far away right now, we encourage our customers who want a REAL ID to get one as soon as possible,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. “We want to do everything we can to encourage residents interested in applying for a REAL ID to start the process now and be aware of all the proper documentation needed,” added Gramian.
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Customers can obtain a REAL ID by presenting documents for verification and processing at any driver license center. Federal regulations require that to be issued a REAL ID-compliant product, PennDOT must verify the below documents:
- Proof of Identity: Examples include original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised seal/embossed or valid, unexpired, U.S. Passport.
- Proof of Social Security Number: Social security card, in current legal name.
- Two Proofs of Current, Physical PA Address: Examples include a current, unexpired PA driver’s license or identification card, vehicle registration or a utility bill with the same name and address.
- Proof of all Legal Name Changes (if current legal name is different than what is reflected on proof of identity document): Examples include a certified marriage certificate(s) issued by the County Court for each marriage, court order(s) approving a change in legal name or amended birth certificate issued by the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics. If current name is the same as what is reflected on proof of identity document (usually birth certificate or passport), a customer does not need to show proof of legal name changes.
Three options to get it
Customers have three options for obtaining a REAL ID product: They may order it online if they have been pre-verified and their product will be mailed to them within 15 business days. They can visit any PennDOT driver license center that is open for driver license services, have their documents verified and imaged, and their product will be mailed to them within 15 business days.
Finally, they can visit one of 13 REAL ID Centers and receive their product over the counter at the time of service.
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