Realizing that the REAL ID Act will be a REAL PAIN the pocketbooks of already cash-strapped states, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has more than doubled the funding level of grants available for REAL ID implementation.

DHS has added $48.5 million to the $31.3 million previously funded, and extended grant application deadline to March 7, 2008.

The grants are intended to help the states in making their driver’s licenses and identification cards and issuance processes REAL ID compliant, and for developing nationwide electronic REAL-ID data-sharing systems.

When fully implemented, the REAL ID Act will require all applicants for new or renewed driver's licenses or ID cards to present documents proving their identity to the state DMVs, and for the states to have methods of proving the authenticity of those documents.

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.

In January, DHS lowered the estimated cost of REAL ID implementation to the states from $14.6 billion to approximately $3.9 billion, due mainly to a decision by DHS to allow states more flexibility in issuing licenses to older Americans.

Also See:
DHS Releases Final REAL ID Regulation
REAL ID Act Deadline Extended by DHS
REAL ID Act: Better Have Your Birth Certificate!