Year from deadline, 2 in 5 Iowans still without new Real ID needed to fly

Those without will need additional identification to fly or enter federal buildings

May. 6, 2022 6:00 am, Updated: May. 6, 2022 9:47 pm

A sign at the Iowa Department of Transportation Driver's License Station in Cedar Rapids shows how to check if your driver's license has the Real ID designation. (The Gazette)

Starting May 3, 2023, the federal government will require a driver’s license or ID card with the “Real ID” mark for air travel and when entering a federal building. Anyone without one starting on that date will be required to provide additional identification.

Being implemented by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Real ID program is designed to establish minimum security standards for government-issued licenses. Certain federal agencies will stop accepting driver’s licenses and other identification cards from states that do not meet the program’s minimum standards.

What’s happened since

Just less than a year out from the deadline, roughly 2 in 5 Iowans have not yet obtained the Real ID.

A spokeswoman for the Iowa Department of Transportation said 59 percent of Iowans who possess a driver’s license or some other form of government-approved identification have obtained a Real ID, leaving 41 percent who have not.

Iowans are not required to obtain a Real ID, but starting May 3, 2023, they will be required to provide additional identification to fly or enter federal buildings.

The state’s percentages are based on Iowans who have a driver’s license or state identification, including children with IDs and 14-year-olds with driver’s permits.

All new Iowa driver’s licenses are being issued with Real ID, which is noted by a gold star on the license.

To get a Real ID marked card, federal law requires individuals to verify their identity.

To get a Real ID in Iowa, individuals must make an appointment to appear in person at an Iowa DOT facility or receive service in person at a county issuance location. The process cannot be completed online.

You must provide

Proof of identity: a passport, birth certificate or citizenship certificate.

Proof of Social Security: a Social Security card, a W-2 or a 1099 tax document or a pay stub showing your name and Social Security number.

2 documents proving Iowa residency: a voter registration card, a statement from a bank or credit union or a utility or electrical bill.

“We are encouraging all Iowans to consider if they plan to travel domestically, seek entrance into a federal building or military base after May 3, 2023, to consider getting a Real ID,” said Darcy Doty, director of the customer services bureau in the Iowa Department of Transportation’s motor vehicle division.

“If they don’t and still seek access to these places, they will be required to show additional identifying documentation.

“Obtaining a Real ID will be simpler as long as Iowans plan ahead, get their documents prepared, and schedule an appointment with us,” Doty said.

Individuals whose driver’s license or ID is up for renewal can receive a Real ID marked license or ID card for no additional cost.

If your ID or driver’s license is not due for renewal, you’ll be charged $10 for a Real ID.

Comments: (515) 355-1300, erin.murphy@thegazette.com