Countdown begins for federal ID requirements

When enforcement of the REAL ID Act begins Oct. 1, 2020, the regular Wisconsin driver license or ID, will no longer be accepted identification for domestic air travel, or to enter a federal building or military base. After that date, travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license, state ID card or another acceptable form of identification (such as a passport).

“Our customers are encouraged to visit the DMV sooner, rather than later,” said DMV administrator Kristina Boardman. “Delay could mean longer lines at the DMV and travelers without a REAL ID will be denied boarding their plane.”

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, individuals must visit a Wisconsin DMV, and bring the following original documents or a certified copy (not a photocopy, fax or scan): proof of name, date of birth, legal presence in the U.S., identity, name change (if applicable), Social Security number and address.

The DMV’s interactive Driver Licensing Guide will help customers develop a personalized checklist of the required documents needed to bring to the DMV. It also allows customers to pre-fill any required application(s), print and bring the forms, or submit them electronically (if eligible) and print a checklist of required documents to bring.

If it’s time to renew a driver license or ID, Wisconsin offers REAL ID-compliant, and non-compliant, driver licenses and ID cards. The cards look similar; REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a μ. Non-compliant cards do not have the star or are marked “NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES.”

People may use other forms of ID, such as a passport. The Wisconsin DMV has offered REAL ID compliant driver licenses and IDs to customers since January 2013. Since that time, nearly every Wisconsin customer has been given REAL ID information, and the opportunity to enroll in the federal program, as a part of their renewal notice.