The Real ID Act passed in 2005, and it will alter the way in which people board flights and access certain government buildings. Individuals in California can secure a REAL ID that would permit them to enter federal courthouses, military bases and additional federal facilities. You can still drive your car, and as long as your regular driver’s license is up-to-date, you probably do not have to worry about hiring a traffic ticket attorney any time soon. Here are the basics of REAL IDs, so you know if you need one.
How Do You Apply for a REAL ID?
Anyone who wants a REAL ID needs to visit the DMV. They will need to provide a social security number, proof of identity and proof of California citizenship. Anyone who plans on renewing or applying for an AB 60 driver’s license will not be eligible to secure a REAL ID at this time.
How Can You Identify a REAL ID?
In California, you can recognize a REAL ID with the image of a golden bear with a star in the middle in the upper right-hand corner of the card. This is a clear indicator you have a federally compliant REAL ID. Anyone who does not have a REAL ID will receive a card that states “Federal Limits Apply” in the upper right-hand corner.
What Can a REAL ID Help With?
There are still plenty of actions you can take without a REAL ID. You do not need this identification to apply for federal benefits, such as those from the Social Security Administration. You also do not need the card to enter a post office, ride public ground transportation or visit the hospital to get life-saving services.
You only need it if you wish to continue using your driver’s license to board domestic flights within the United States, or you need it to enter federal facilities. You can still drive a vehicle without a REAL ID, and your traffic attorney Los Angeles can inform you of all of the ID’s limitations to set your mind at ease.
When Will You Need To Acquire a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act officially goes into effect on October 1st, 2020. At this point, the federal government will require it if you want to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities. You can apply to receive the card now so that you receive it by the October 1st deadline. Anyone who is a United States citizen or a legal resident of the country can apply for a REAL ID.
Can You Use Other Documents for Identification?
People who do not need a REAL ID are those who do not plan on boarding a domestic flight or going to a federal facility. Additionally, other approved documents exist that would allow people to continue doing those activities. The REAL ID is merely a simple card that can make getting into certain buildings easier. You can still drive a car like normal, but if you ever find yourself in trouble with your REAL ID or regular driver’s license, do not hesitate to contact a traffic ticket attorney.
