ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has announced requirements for Minnesotans to obtain new driver’s licenses or ID cards compliant with the federal Real ID program. When applying for a Real ID card, which won’t be required for air travel until October of 2020, applicants must provide documents proving identity, date of birth, legal status, social security number and Minnesota residency.
“While Minnesotans have plenty of time to get a new Real ID-compliant license, it’s important they know what they need to have when they apply,” said Rep. Rob Ecklund (DFL – International Falls). “This is a new process that will represent a bit of a change for most folks, so it’s not too early to make sure they have what they need. As always, I encourage constituents to contact my office if I can be of assistance.”
The additional documentation required by federal law ensures the new licenses and ID cards meet minimum federal security standards established by Congress in 2005 under the Real ID Act. To apply for a Real ID, Minnesotans will need to present the following documents in person:
- One document proving identity, date of birth and legal presence in the United States, such as a passport or a birth certificate. If the name on the identity document is not the same as a person's current name, a name change document must be submitted.
- One document proving their social security number, such as a social security card or a federal W2 form.
- Two documents proving current residency in Minnesota. Examples include a valid driver’s license or ID card, a cancelled check or a credit card statement.
A complete list of acceptable documents for REAL ID can be found at REALID.dps.mn.gov. The U.S. Department of Homeland security has additional information available online as well.
Real ID-compliant cards will be available starting October 1, 2018. To prepare for this transition, Driver’s License Agent offices will be closed on Friday, September 28, and Saturday, September 29.