Live in Pennsylvania? You have only days to get a Real ID before the federal deadline
The Department of Homeland Security notes on its website the deadline to obtain a Real ID is Wednesday, May 7.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation hosted a series of "Real ID Days" at dozens of drivers license centers across the state to educate people and guide them through the Real ID process.
The next Real ID Day in Pennsylvania is Monday, May 5.
You will need to produce several other pieces of identification, including proof of citizenship, proof of residency and valid Social Security Number when applying for a Real ID.
Pennsylvanians can also obtain Real ID pre-verification online.
It is possible for you to obtain a Real ID after the May 7 deadline.
"Although a REAL ID or other TSA-acceptable form of ID will be needed to fly domestically beginning May 7, Pennsylvanians can apply for a REAL ID at any time – before, on or after the enforcement date – depending on their situation," read the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Real ID notice. "Real ID products are a permanent part of PennDOT's services. If you're not sure whether a REAL ID is right for you, our Real ID online wizard may be able to help."
Obtaining a Real ID is generally optional, but you will need a Real ID for most circumstances that require identification, particularly those flying without a passport.
After May 7, a Real ID or another form of federally acceptable identification, such as a valid passport or military ID, will be required to:
Board domestic commercial flights
Enter a military base
Enter certain federal facilities that require a federally acceptable form of ID
A passport would still be necessary for international travel.
Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending topics across the Mid-Atlantic Region.
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Live in Philadelphia? You have only a few days left to get a Real ID
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