Time to Get REAL (ID)

REAL IDs will be a reality beginning in May 2023. Now is the time to apply.

By May 3, 2023, anyone taking a domestic flight or visiting certain federal facilities must use a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card.

In 2021 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said only 43% of driver’s licenses were REAL IDs. If you want to use your license to fly in the U.S. after May 2023, it will need to be a REAL ID.

“REAL ID” itself is a federal law, not a specific ID card, so there are multiple options for Washington residents to choose from. The Washington State Department of Licensing setup a website to help residents navigate the process, https://id2023wa.com/

Beat the Rush

“We have seen a slight uptick in the number of people who want to get the enhanced licensed or ID card and we certainly expect that demand to go up as we get closer to the federal deadline,” Anthony said.

The department of licensing options for many renewal appointments are now available online, hopefully freeing up some appointment space. But the department still advises to act on EDL appointments early, if you want one.

Where Will Real ID be Required?

You will need a REAL ID compliant to fly, and you may need one to visit military bases like Joint Base Lewis-McChord. You do not need one to drive or ride a bus or train, or to visit national parks or social security offices.

Federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, may only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities, including TSA airport security checkpoints, if the license or card was issued by a REAL ID-compliant state in accordance with the REAL ID security standards (meaning the license or card must include the REAL ID compliant star marking),” according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.

Enhanced Drivers Licenses

Washington is issuing Enhanced Driver’s Licenses that will accepted as REAL ID.
The enhanced driver’s license provides identification and allows the operation of a motor vehicle access to military bases and other federal facilities and will be accepted at airports for domestic travel.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of a Washington Enhanced Driver’s License is $78 for six years.

Whether you use an Enhanced Driver’s License, a U.S. passport, or one of the other excepted REAL IDs, the fact is you will need to provide more sophisticated proof of identification beginning next May 3rd or have your travel choices limited.