REAL ID Final Rule

In January 2008, the Department of Homeland Security has issued a final rule to establish minimum standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards in accordance with the REAL ID Act of 2005.

These regulations set standards for states to meet the requirements of the REAL ID Act, including:

• information and security features that must be incorporated into each card;
• proof of identity and lawful status of an applicant;
• verification of the source documents provided by an applicant; and
• security standards for the offices that issue licenses and identification cards.

Pursuant to the Department of Homeland Security's REAL ID regulation, States were to be in full compliance with the REAL ID Act of 2005 by May 11, 2011. A final rule issued March 7, 2011 changes that date to January 15, 2013. This change gives States the time necessary to ensure that driver's licenses and identification cards issued by States meet the security requirements of the REAL ID Act.

Final Rule

• Minimum Standards for Driver's Licenses and Identification Cards Acceptable by Federal Agencies for Official Purposes: Final rule - Change of Compliance Deadline to January 15, 2013
  
  
• Minimum Standards for Drivers Licenses and Identification Cards Acceptable by Federal Agencies for Official Purposes: Final Rule - Request for Extension Deadline
  
  
• Minimum Standards for Drivers Licenses and Identification Cards Acceptable by Federal Agencies for Official Purposes: Final Rule

Additional Information

• Comprehensive Regulatory Evaluation of the benefits and costs of the final minimum standards for State-issued drivers’ licenses and non-driver identification cards pursuant to the REAL ID Act. (PDF, 205 Pages - 943 KB)
  
• Read More about More Secure Driver's Licenses.