What is Real ID?

Real ID, in general terms, refers to new federal legislation intended to deter terrorism by implementing several new homeland security regulations. The proposed rules establish the minimum standards, procedures and requirements that must be met if a state issued driver's license or identification card is to be accepted by the Federal government for official purposes. Official purposes, as defined by the rules, include entering a nuclear power facility, entering a Federal building, and boarding a Federally-regulated airplane.

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is in the process of finalizing administrative regulations to establish these minimum standards in accordance with the REAL ID Act of 2005. These proposed regulations will set standards for all states to meet the requirements of the REAL ID Act, including, but not limited to:

• security features that must be incorporated into each state driver's license or identification card;
• verification of information provided by applicants to establish their identity and lawful status in the United States; and
• physical security standards for locations where licenses and identification cards are issued.

Georgia's Response to Real ID

Georgia is well positioned to respond to the requirements of Real ID should the state decide to become a Real ID compliant state. Georgia law has long required all applicants to present original documentation to prove identity, Georgia residency and citizenship or lawful presence in the United States when applying for a Georgia driver's license or identification card. Further, undocumented aliens are not eligible for any type of driver's license or identification card under Georgia law.

Additionally, the Department of Driver Services (DDS) is in the process of procuring a new driver's license issuance system that will substantially enhance the physical security of Georgia's driver's licenses and identification cards by implementing state-of-the-art security features that will prevent document tampering and counterfeiting.

How Can I Prepare?

As we wait for the final federal requirements to be published, DDS is implementing procedures to ensure the safety of Georgia driver identity and data in anticipation of Real ID. DDS strongly advises that all of our present and future customers be mindful of the following:

• New homeland security laws will affect what you need to bring to a DDS customer service center (CSC) when applying for, or renewing, a driver's license or identification card. Being prepared with the correct information will make your trip to your local CSC a success.
• All documentation to prove identity, Georgia residency, citizenship or lawful presence must be an original or a certified copy (with a raised seal) to be acceptable. For a list of acceptable documents, please check here.
• Customers should verify that each state and federal entity which may utilize personal information (Social Security Administration, banking institutions, Internal Revenue Service, etc.) know you by your full legal name and have your correct date of birth, residence address, etc. on their records as these entities are among those that may be used to verify your identity, residence and citizenship (or lawful presence in the United States).

Dates to Remember

Additional Information

American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA)
DHS: REAL ID Proposed Guidelines: Questions & Answers
DHS: Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: REAL ID
Department of Homeland Security Privacy Impact Assessment REAL ID