ST. PAUL, MN – The deadline to comply with new federal ID standards arrives later this year and State Representative Brian Daniels, R-Faribault, is encouraging people to sign up now and beat the rush.
Starting October 1, 2020, every air traveler 18 years of age or older will need a Real ID, enhanced driver’s license or ID, passport or passport card, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States or enter federal facilities.
Reports show fewer than 10 percent of Minnesotans are currently compliant with the new ID standards and it is still taking several weeks for the state to turn around applications. Daniels said the pressures on turnaround time could intensify this fall as more people get in line to apply for a compliant ID.
“If folks are planning to fly sometime after October 1st, I strongly encourage them to begin the application process as soon as possible,” Daniels said. “I’m concerned that the state will receive a rush of applications as we approach the October deadline, leaving many without the necessary identification needed to board an aircraft. Getting ahead of the rush could save you a great deal of frustration this fall.”
There are additional documents needed to obtain a Real ID driver’s license or enhanced driver’s License or state ID card. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) website has information detailing the requirements and documents needed. DPS also has a pre-application online page to help speed up the process for processing an application for the REAL ID.
The federal Real ID program was created in the wake of the 9-11 terrorist attacks. Congress raised ID standards in 2005, phased in over a number of years, with the stated goal of protecting our nation. While Minnesota’s current standard IDs do not meet the heightened federal standards, legislation enacted in 2017 allows the state to come into compliance this year.
