“REAL ID” is a piece of federal legislation that was passed by Congress and signed by President George W. Bush in 2005. The Act sets forth stricter and uniform standards in documentation required to obtain a compliant driver’s or non-driver’s license and stricter standards on data required to be physically present on a compliant driver’s or non-driver’s license. A state driver’s or non-drivers license must comply with the requirements of “REAL ID” in order to be accepted by agents or agencies of the federal government. Citing privacy concerns with data storage requirements, elected officials in Missouri have delayed the implementation of “REAL ID.” As a result, Missouri is one of the last states to adopt the compliant ID cards.

AM I REQUIRED TO GET A REAL ID COMPLIANT LICENSE?

In 2017, Missouri elected officials created a compromise position regarding “REAL ID”. If you are concerned about the privacy issues raised by the opponents of “REAL ID” you do not have to get a compliant driver’s or non-driver’s license. However, if you do not have a compliant ID, you will not be able to board planes, visit nuclear sites, or visit military bases and other federal facilities.

WHEN WOULD I BE REQUIRED TO HAVE A COMPLIANT LICENSE TO BOARD A PLANE?

Missourians have until October of 2020 to obtain a compliant ID to board planes, visit nuclear sites, or visit military bases and other federal facilities. Your current ID will continue to be accepted until that date.

HOW MUCH IS THE COST AND WHEN CAN I GET A COMPLIANT ID?

Beginning March 25, 2019 the Missouri Department of Revenue began issuing compliant IDs. The cost varies depending upon the type of license you are getting. If you are renewing a non-commercial driver’s license for a period of three-years, you will be charged $10.

When obtaining a compliant ID, you will be required to submit the following valid, original documents demonstrating proof of each item at the time you apply:

• Identity (one acceptable document to verify full legal name and date of birth);

• Lawful Status in the United States (one acceptable document to verify United States citizenship or immigration status);

• Social Security Number (one acceptable document);

• Missouri Residency (two acceptable documents verifying your Missouri residential address); and

• Additional items may be required if your name is different from the name on your identity and date of birth verification document.

For more information, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue’s website here.