Real ID in under 20 minutes. How about that? In the middle of the country’s transition to the new national security standards, Michigan has become the place where it’s fastest and easiest to get a Real ID license, the document that’s now required to fly within the U.S.
While other states are dealing with packed appointments and long lines, Michigan has managed to issue over 200,000 documents in just three months. How?
What is the Real ID?
How do you not know this yet? It’s the most secure form of identification to date. And it’s federal, meaning you’ll need it to enter any federal building or military base, and most importantly, it’s now required for domestic flights.
This document became mandatory on May 7, so if you still don’t have it, run to your nearest DMV and get that golden star on your ID.
Why is it mandatory?
Because that’s what the Real ID Act mandates, a rule created in response to the 9/11 attacks. The goal of this new document is to better identify people boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings.
Yes, it’s mandatory even though you can use a passport or other IDs, but those alternatives might slow down security checks and could even cause you to miss your flight. You’re already checking your nearest DMV appointment, right?
Michigan leading the way
From February 23 to May 17, Michigan issued 202,571 licenses without a single reported incident or complaint from applicants. The secret? Efficient office management and prioritizing the process.
According to the DMV, 76% of residents have already completed all requirements under the new rule, making Michigan the absolute national leader.
What do I need to apply for my Real ID?
There are a few documents you’ll need, take note so you don’t forget any:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, this can be your birth certificate or Green Card
- A document that verifies your Social Security number
- Two proofs of residence, like a lease or utility bills showing you live in the state you’re applying in
Why so much paperwork? Because they need to verify your identity securely and with no room for error.
How do I know if my ID is a Real ID?
Grab your ID, does it have a star in the top right corner? Then it’s a Real ID. No star? Then it’s not. See how easy we made it?
What about alternatives to the Real ID?
As we said, you can still fly using other valid IDs like a foreign passport, DHS trusted traveller card, Department of Defense ID, or a Green Card. But if you don’t have one of those, you could face extra checks at the airport, which might cost you time, or even your flight.
The Real ID is here to stay, and it’s important to get yours, especially if you’re planning to travel within the country. This document is now a reality and will be key for absolutely all domestic flights. So if you haven’t applied for yours yet and were waiting for a sign, this is it!
Michigan has shown that when there’s a will, there’s a way, and that when federal security is on the line, there’s no room for excuses.