Tennessee Real ID goes in effect October 2020

Beginning in October 2020, Tennesseans without the Real ID will not be able to board domestic flights, enter military bases, nuclear power plants, or enter certain federal buildings that require an ID.

            The state of Tennessee first made available the Real ID in July 2019. The Real ID Act of 2005 is an Act of Congress that modifies the U.S. federal law, including security and authentication. It modifies license issuance procedure standards and identity documents. This includes protection from different immigration issues pertaining to terrorism.

            In 2005, a Real ID was not required. By Oct. 2020, an approved TSA form of identification will be required to fly, such as the Real ID or a passport. The Maryville Driver Services Center located on Home Avenue has already begun issuing Real IDs for those wishing to fly in the new decade.

            The Real ID features a gold star in the upper right corner. Other licenses issued after July 2019 are marked with “NOT FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION.” The Department of Homeland Security recommends states to adopt the design. The gold star is used to easily distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable state-issued driver’s licenses or identification cards.

            Whether you get a Real ID is completely up to you. It is not required to obtain the license. Many documents will be required to obtain the Real ID, and all required documents must be original or certified.

            One proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence is required. These documents include a U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, valid Permanent Resident Card, U.S. certificate or consular report of birth abroad, Certification of Citizenship, or Certificate of Naturalization. All documents must show one’s legal name and date of birth.

            One proof of a social security number is required. This includes a social security card or payroll check stub. A W-2 or 1099 form within the last twelve months are also accepted. The documents must show your legal name and full social security number.

            Two proofs of Tenn. residency are also required. This includes a home utility bill within the past four months, homeowner or renter insurance policy, automobile policy, or Voter Registration card. Each document must show your name and physical address to be accepted.

            A Real ID will cost the same as a regular Tennessee license or ID. If your current license is expiring, the cost for the Real ID will be around $28 for a duplicate license. If you are within the renewal period before your license expires, you will be charged the standard fee of around $12.

            Enforcement of this act will provide an important component of a holistic national security strategy. This is a vital factor in the lives of law enforcement—being able to rely on government-issued identification. The Real ID requires documents of applicants proving he or she is who they claim to be.

            The Real ID is an effort by the Federal Government and Tenn. to advance the accuracy of state-issued identification documents. Without Real ID, terrorists’ ability to evade using fraudulent identification is likely higher.