Does your ID have a star in the corner? What you need to know before Real ID begins

By PARKER CARLSON
WISH-TV | wishtv.com

All driver’s licenses, permits, and identification cards nationwide will have to be Real ID-compliant by May 7, but how is it going to affect you?

The REAL ID Act, which was created from the 9/11 Commission to create a new security standard, was passed by Congress in 2005 and is nearing its deadline for compliance on May 7.

Without Real ID, you’ll risk major delays through extra screening processes when getting on a plane – and can even be prohibited from boarding – and you won’t be able to enter federal facilities. However, you will be able to use a passport instead of a Real ID to board.

Chances are you already have a Real ID compliant driver’s license or identification card, and you can double-check by seeing if your ID has a star in the upper right corner.

If it’s there, you don’t need to worry, you’re all set. If not, it’s an easy fix. Simply go to your nearest BMV and show six forms of identification:

• One document to prove your identity.
• Legal proof if you changed your name, date of birth, or gender.
• One document proving lawful status.
• One document proving your social security.
• Two documents proving you live in Indiana.

If you were born in Puerto Rico, your birth certificate must have been issued on or after July 1, 2010 to get a Real ID. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and Enhanced Identification Cards, issued from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont, will be accepted as a Real ID alternative despite not having a star marking.

Minors will not need to provide identification to TSA.

After you’re approved for Real ID, if you don’t have a temporary or permanent resident status, you won’t have to go through this process again.

If you don’t have a Real ID-compliant license or ID card, you will still be able to drive and vote. You will also be able to apply to keep a non-compliant license or ID card when you renew.

This story was originally published by WISH-TV at wishtv.com/news/local-news/real-id-compliance-may-7.