Are you real? Actually you only need to be concerned with your Real ID. In 2005, in response to 9/11, Congress enacted the Real ID Act, to make sure you are authenticated as to who you say you are. We don’t want Aunt Edna pretending to be you. COVID-19 has pushed back the Real ID deadline for Montanans another year – so October 1, 2021.
According to https://mtrealid.gov/, you are not required to get a Montana REAL ID compliant license or ID; however, a Montana REAL ID compliant license or ID or another acceptable form of identification is required to fly domestically and access federal facilities by October 2021. Alternative options, such as a passport or passport card, are acceptable forms of identification as well. The main reason for choosing to upgrade your Montana license or ID to REAL ID – REAL ID is all about convenience.
REAL ID compliant driver licenses and ID cards have a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of the license to indicate it is REAL ID compliant. This is the only physical difference from a non-compliant credential, but it allows airport and federal officials to quickly identify the card.
Montana credentials already provide a high level of identity security and fraud deterrence. The only physical difference with non-compliant driver licenses and ID cards, issued after January 2019, is the text, “NOT FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES,” in the upper right-hand corner.
First step, log onto to mtrealid.com, to schedule an appointment. Then you will need four types of documentation. You will need proof showing U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or a passport, but it must be certified. “We have to be able to feel a seal. With information at the bottom. You can’t bring in copies. A lot of times it’s a photocopy, and we can’t accept that, unfortunately,” said Tim Lucas.
Second, you need Social Security documentation. A Social Security card works perfectly, as long as it is NOT laminated. If that is not available and you don’t want to wait till you receive a brand new card from SS, you can use a 1099 or a W2 that lists your full Social Security number.
Third, you need two proofs of residency. So we know you aren’t sneaking over from Timbuktu. This includes an electric bill, another utility bill, a bank statement, mortgage statement or pay stub that shows your current last name and current PHYSICAL address. PO boxes are not accepted.
Fourth, if needed, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree if your name has changed since birth.
It will take about 15 minutes if you have all the appropriate documents. The estimated cost varies, but to renew a driver’s license during renewal period and adding Real ID was anywhere from $61.80 to $67.47.
To learn more, view the document checklist, and sign up for an appointment, go to https://mtrealid.gov/. You can also call 1-866-450-8034 for assistance, or even send an email to mvd@mt.gov. Happy finding out who you really are!