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Real ID Act

The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, established security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards in the United States. Its main goal is to improve the security of identification used for federal purposes, such as boarding commercial flights or entering federal buildings. States must verify the identity and legal status of applicants, ensuring that IDs meet specific criteria. If states do not comply, their IDs may not be accepted for federal purposes. The act aims to prevent identity fraud and enhance national security following the 9/11 attacks.

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    The Real ID Act, enacted in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. It aims to enhance national security by ensuring that only verified individuals can obtain identification that is accepted for federal purposes, like boarding airplanes or entering federal buildings. States must meet these standards to have their IDs accepted for such uses. This law emphasizes strict verification of identity and residency, affecting how states issue ID credentials and impacting citizens' access to certain services and travel.