The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. The purposes covered by the Act are: accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and, boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.
Due to circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the national emergency declaration, the Department of Homeland Security is extending the REAL ID enforcement deadline by a year. The new deadline for REAL ID enforcement is October 1, 2021.
New applicants
New applicants that successfully complete the requirements for a Vermont DL or ID card will be issued a REAL ID marked card.
Current DL or ID Cardholders
Go to any Vermont DMV office and present the same documents a new applicant would present. This can be done when you renew your existing card, or you may surrender your current card and request a replacement that is REAL ID marked. Replacements require paying a replacement fee.
All applicants must provide proof of identity; date of birth; Social Security number; Vermont residence; and lawful status or presence in the United States.
TSA Information on REAL ID Enforcement and Requirements at Airport Security
REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. If you’re not sure, look at the upper-righthand corner of your license. If your Vermont license has a circle with a star in it in the upper-righthand corner, it is Real ID compliant.
- Beginning October 1, 2021, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.
TSA information on acceptable identification available here
TSA FAQs available here
DHS REAL ID brief page is available here
