Koczor: New driver’s license requirements in effect next year

Nov 14, 2019

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Effective Oct. 1, 2020, driver’s licenses in Arizona will not be compliant with the REAL ID Act, according to Arizona Department of Transportation. The REAL ID Act, which Congress passed in 2005, tightens requirements for identification presented by travelers at airports.

Arizona residents won’t be able to get through TSA airport security checkpoints with a standard driver’s license as identification. The non-travel license says “NOT FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION” across the front.

The biggest visible difference between a standard driver’s license and the “voluntary travel ID” is a gold star on the top right corner of the new cards.

A travel ID costs $25 and is valid for eight years. Applications are available online at AzDOT.gov/travelID. Travelers must bring completed application to a Motor Vehicle Division office or an authorized third-party driver’s license provider to apply.

Three categories of identification documents are required. All documents must be originals or copies in English certified by the issuing agency.

Bring one: Proof of identity (birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card). If you need a certified copy of an Arizona birth certificate, you can request one from Arizona Department of Health Services.

Bring one: Proof of Social Security Number (Social Security card, W-2 form). To order a replacement Social Security card visit the Social Security Administration website SSA.gov/myaccount and establish an account.

Bring two: Proof of Arizona residency via two printed documents with your current Arizona residential address (utility bills, credit card/bank statements, insurance policy). Note: If your current legal name is different from the one shown on a document, you must show legal proof of name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order.

Those who don’t have the required residency documents must complete an Arizona Residency Affidavit and supply additional proof of residency.

Joan Koczor is a senior advocate and Maricopa resident.

This column appears in the November issue of InMaricopa.