Idaho granted REAL ID extension as implementation work continues
Idaho was granted a REAL ID extension by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) earlier this month and is close to meeting final requirements for the issuance of REAL ID in January 2018. The extension ensures Idaho’s current driver’s licenses and identification (ID) cards are accepted at federal facilities and military bases.
Airline travel is covered under a separate provision that guarantees DHS will accept current Idaho driver’s licenses and identification cards. Airports will accept a passport in lieu of REAL ID.
“Our primary goal in asking for the extension was to minimize any inconvenience to our customers who need access to federal facilities and military bases as part of their daily lives. This extension covers that and allows us to work on meeting the requirements to issue REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and ID cards – something we are very close to achieving,” said Division of Motor Vehicles Administrator, Alan Frew.
ITD has completed all but five of the 39 REAL ID requirements and has received three extensions from DHS since 2005.
Idaho had a moratorium on REAL ID compliance in place until the legislature lifted it during the 2016 session. The law was signed by Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter in March 2016.
The REAL ID Act of 2005 was enacted by Congress as a result of the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s license.” The ACT established security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting cards from states that do not meet those standards.
