Declaring that "The American public's desire for greater identity protection is undeniable," Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff announced official regulations establishing minimum security standards for state-issued drivers’ licenses and identification cards necessary for compliance with the REAL ID Act.

In order to comply with REAL ID, states must:

• Incorporate information and security features into each license or ID card;

• Document the identity and U.S. citizenship or legal status of all applicants;

• Verify the authenticity of documents provided by an applicant; and

• Develop and implement security standards for the offices that issue licenses and identification cards.

"Americans understand today that the 9/11 hijackers obtained 30 drivers licenses and ID's, and used 364 aliases." said Sec. Chertoff in a press release. "For an extra $8 per license, REAL ID will give law enforcement and security officials a powerful advantage against falsified documents, and it will bring some peace of mind to citizens wanting to protect their identity from theft by a criminal or illegal alien."

By Dec. 31, 2009, all states drivers' license or ID card issuance systems must be capable of verifying the lawful status of all applicants to prevent illegal aliens from obtaining REAL ID-compliant licenses. California already complies with this requirement, and other states are expected to comply well before the deadline. Persons not holding REAL ID-compliant licenses or ID cards will not be allowed to enter federal buildings, board commercial aircraft, or enter nuclear power plants after Dec. 31, 2009.

Cost-cutting Measures Help States Comply
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the cost to the states of complying with REAL ID has been reduced by 73 percent -- from an original estimate of $14.6 billion to approximately $3.9 billion. The reduction is due mainly to a decision by DHS to allow states more flexibility in issuing licenses to older Americans.

DHS plans for REAL ID "enrollment" for all persons under 50 years of age to be completed by Dec. 1, 2014, with all individuals enrolled by Dec. 1, 2017.

Also See:
States Race to Reject REAL ID Act
REAL ID Act Deadline Extended by DHS
REAL ID Act: Better Have Your Birth Certificate!
Could REAL ID Act Herald the Apocalypse?