REAL ID FACTS
Minnesota REAL ID Cards Will Be Available After Oct. 1, 2018
A Minnesota REAL ID is a federally compliant driver’s license or state ID that will look similar to your current state driver’s license, but would contain security enhancements intended to prevent tampering, counterfeiting or duplication. The also include a bar code with data currently on your card such as endorsements or restrictions.
When do you need to get a new driver’s license or ID card?
Minnesotans whose driver’s licenses or identification cards expire before October, 2018, should plan to renew their cards as they normally would. The optional REAL ID-compliant cards will not be available in Minnesota until October, 2018.
- The renewed license will be valid for four years, barring a suspension or revocation.
- They will be able to apply for a REAL ID once they are available in October.
- If they choose to apply for a REAL ID before their standard license expires, an early renewal fee would be charged and an additional four years would be added to the expiration date.
What do you need to obtain a REAL ID?
You need to bring proof of identity, date of birth and legal presence in the U.S. You also need proof of a social security number and proof of current residency in Minnesota. For more information, please go to https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/real-id/Pages/required-documents.aspx
How much do the new IDs cost?
The cost for a REAL ID is the same as a standard driver’s license ($25.25) or ID card ($19.25).
The early renewal fee, set in Minnesota law, is based on how many months the REAL ID is obtained before a person’s driver’s license or ID card expires.
- $2 for a renewal 17 months before expiration;
- $4 for a renewal 18 to 29 months before expiration;
- $6 for a renewal more than 29 months before expiration.
Why would I want a REAL ID compliant identification card?
When they become available in Minnesota, REAL ID-compliant cards will be an acceptable form of identification for domestic air travel and to access federal facilities
- These cards can be used as a valid form of identification and for lawful driving privileges.
- These cards cannot be used as border crossing documents.
- If you do not plan to fly on domestic airlines or visit federal facilities, or if you do not want to provide additional proof of identity or residency, you do not need to get a REAL ID.
When will I need a REAL ID card to travel?
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security informed the Department of Public Safety that Minnesotans should be able to use their standard driver’s license or ID card for domestic air travel until 2020 since the state is on track to issue REAL ID-compliant cards Oct. 1, 2018.
What can you do with an Enhanced Drivers License (EDL) that you cannot do with a REAL ID?
- The EDL can be used as a U.S. border crossing document and for land and sea crossings in certain countries.
- The EDL can be used for domestic air travel and to access federal facilities now.
- The EDL will continue to be an acceptable form of ID for federal purposes even after REAL ID compliant cards become available.
- Obtaining an EDL requires additional documentation and an interview questionnaire.
- COST; Driver’s license $40.25 / $ID card $34.25.