Beginning in 2020, a regular Michigan driver’s license will not be good enough to board an airplane, or enter a federal facility. As Ben Thorp reports, many Michigan residents will have to obtain a new license that complies with the federal REAL ID Act.
The new ID requirements were passed by congress in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks. They’re meant to improve security at airports, federal buildings and military installations.
Fred Woodhams is a spokesman for Michigan’s Secretary of State. He says the new IDs will be available beginning next week. “It’s entirely optional the compliant card does not cost anything extra, you’ll simply pay your normal renewal fee that you would before but if you want a compliant license you’ll have to bring in a certified birth certificate.”
Some Michigan IDs already comply with the REAL ID act, including enhanced drivers licenses. Anyone without a compliant ID will have to use another form identification, such as a passport, at airports and federal facilities beginning October 1st, 2020.