PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – The REAL ID deadline is May 7. As of this date, you will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or identification card to board domestic commercial flights and access certain federal facilities.
What is a “REAL ID”? A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or ID card that meets the minimum security standards outlined in the REAL ID Act. This act was passed in response to the 9/11 attacks and aims to improve the accuracy and security of state-issued identification. It’s designed to be more resistant to fraud and tampering than a standard state ID.
Not sure if your Maine driver’s license is a REAL ID? Look for the outline of the state with a star in the center located in the upper right hand corner of your license.
To obtain a Maine REAL ID, make an appointment at your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles. You can make the appointment online at https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv. In addition, you will need several documents to prove your identity and legal presence in the United States.
First, you will need to provide your Social Security number (the actual card is not required). If you are not eligible for a Social Security number, you will need to provide evidence of that.
Secondly, for proof of identity, you will need one of the following: Certified copy of your birth certificate, unexpired US passport or passport card, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization or a REAL ID compliant license from another state.
Thirdly, you need to provide proof of legal presence. Examples would be a passport or a certified copy of a birth certificate.
Lastly, for proof of Maine residency, you will need two from the following list: utility bill in your name, paycheck stub, mortgage payment, property tax bill, firearms permit or fishing license.
Please note that all documents must be original and unaltered and some documents may need to be certified by the issuing agency. If you have legally changed your name, you will need to provide documentation of that name change, such as a marriage license or divorce decree.
There is a fee associated with obtaining your REAL ID In Maine, the fees are: $55 for a REAL ID Driver’s License if you are under the age of 65; $40 for a REAL ID Driver’s License if you are 65 and older; or $30 if you simply want a non-driver REAL ID identification card.
For more information, visit https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/driver-licenses-and-ids.
