Do You Need a Real ID?

Photo: State of Maine Department of the Secretary of State

By Kendra Williams

According to the Maine Secretary of State, the deadline to obtain a Real ID is quickly approaching. Beginning May 7, standard Maine driver’s licenses and state IDs will no longer be accepted for federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. An unexpired passport or passport card, a foreign passport or immigration document will also be accepted for these purposes.

You are not required to have a Real ID for everyday purposes such as driving, registering to vote, applying for federal benefits, conducting financial transactions, renting a vehicle, entering a federal facility such at a post office, purchasing alcohol or tobacco or accessing health services.

If you choose to get a Real ID compliant driver’s license or identification card, you will need to go to a branch office of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles in person and bring original or certified copies of the following documents:

1. A document that establishes your identity, date of birth and proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residence or temporary lawful status in the U.S.
2. Your Social Security number (card not required) or evidence of Social Security ineligibility.
3. Two documents to establish proof of residence in the State of Maine, such as a utility bill and mortgage statement. A post office box is not acceptable.

If your name has been legally changed and now differs from your identity document(s), such as your birth certificate or passport, proof of the name change must be provided to obtain a Real ID. Acceptable documents supporting a legal name change include a marriage license, divorce decree, or court order. In all cases, the documents must show a clear trailof name changes from the name on the identity document to the current name.

Be aware that there may be a long wait at the BMV office. To avoid waiting, you can make an appointment online here.

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