The Brief
- The TSA plans to begin implementing the Real ID requirements starting from May 7.
- Minnesota DVS has seen a surge in Real ID applications for months.
- A Real ID or TSA-approved identification is necessary for boarding an aircraft or accessing a federal building.
(FOX 9)
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The implementation of the Real ID enforcement deadline will take place on Wednesday.
Undoubtedly, one of the most bustling teams in Minnesota at present is the state’sDriver and Vehicle Services (DVS).
Streamlining for national security
The backstory
The Real ID Act was enacted in 2005 as part of the recommendations from the 9/11 Commission report. According to Jessica Mayle, who serves as a regional spokesperson for the TSA, “With each state currently providing their own distinct driver’s license, our aim is to establish uniform nationwide safety protocols.”
Mayle further explained: “This initiative seeks to streamline processes with consistent security measures across all regions. The primary objective here is enhancing overall transport security. It ensures that individuals approaching checkpoints match those identified through documentation and receive commensurate scrutiny.”
Application volume surging
By the numbers
Based on an average month, DVS receives approximately 30,000 applications for all their cards combined.
The agency stated that this figure has been increasing. In April, the amount of solely Real ID applications reached almost 100,000.
The group indicated that the 23 processors can handle roughly 1,000 applications per day. However, they are currently getting an influx of about triple that amount each day.
Therefore, DVS mentioned that the present processing period extends beyond 52 days. The group advised that if you possess an additional type of unexpired TSA-approved identification, it might be best to use that until your turn in the queue comes up.
“Should you possess an alternative form of federally approved documentation under the Real ID Act but currently hold only a standard driver’s license or identification card, we highly advise against rushing to update it. Instead, proceed with your usual renewal schedule. This approach allows those without any viable alternatives to address their needs first,” explained Jody-Kay Peterson, Program Director at DVS.
What they’re saying
The TSA mentioned they are collaborating closely with airports and their airline partners as these new measures come into play. They advise allocating additional time if you plan to travel to an airport anytime soon.
“We anticipate that some individuals may have been unable to obtain their Real IDs before the deadline due to various reasons and could find themselves at the checkpoints. These folks, as I see it, might experience delays and possibly undergo additional screenings,” stated Mayle.
The TSA mentioned that if you don’t possess a Real ID, there are approximately twelve alternative valid IDs available. They also noted that passports and passport cards are the most frequently used options.
The types of ID cards issued differ from state to state. After May 7, in Minnesota, people will still be able to apply for three types of driver’s licenses: the standard, Real ID or enhanced – depending on access needs.
Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services advised that if you initiate the Real ID application process, you should verify with the specific examination office you intend to visit. Note that some offices are independently operated, which might lead to differences in their operational hours and processes. Furthermore, if you begin the preliminary application process online, ensure that the documentation submitted matches precisely with what you will present at a physical location.
What you can do
Navigate the
Minnesota DVS tool
That assists you in selecting the most suitable credit card type for your needs.
Take a look at the additional accepted forms of ID you can present at a TSA checkpoint.
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