Why Does My ID Say Not for Federal Purposes?

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Have you ever wondered why your driver’s license or identification card says “not for federal purposes”? It’s a common question, especially for those who have encountered issues when trying to use their ID for federal purposes, such as boarding an airplane or entering a federal building. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this statement, its legal implications, and what you can do if your ID is marked as such.

Real ID: What you need to know | wgrz.com

Why Does My Id Say Not For Federal Purposes

The REAL ID Act

To understand why some IDs are marked “not for federal purposes,” we need to look at the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005. The REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and aimed to prevent identity theft and terrorism. Under the act, states had until 2020 to comply with the new standards or risk having their residents’ IDs deemed invalid for federal purposes.

What Does “Not for Federal Purposes” Mean?

If your ID bears the “not for federal purposes” statement, it means that your state has not yet met the security standards set forth by the REAL ID Act. As a result, your ID may not be accepted as valid identification for certain federal purposes, such as:

  • Boarding a commercial aircraft
  • Entering a federal building
  • Accessing certain federal benefits
  • Applying for a passport

How to Get a REAL ID-Compliant ID

If you want to obtain a REAL ID-compliant ID, you will need to visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and provide the following documents:

  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
  • Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
  • Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, tax return)

Once you have provided the necessary documents, your DMV will issue you a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, which will not bear the “not for federal purposes” statement.

Can I Still Use My Non-REAL ID for State Purposes?

Yes, even if your ID is marked “not for federal purposes,” you can still use it for most state purposes, such as driving, voting, and accessing state benefits. However, you may encounter issues if you try to use your non-REAL ID for federal purposes.

Conclusion

The “not for federal purposes” statement on your ID simply means that your state has not yet complied with the REAL ID Act. While you can still use your non-REAL ID for most state purposes, you may encounter issues when trying to use it for federal purposes. If you need a REAL ID-compliant ID, you can obtain one from your state’s DMV by providing the necessary documents.

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Why Does My Id Say Not For Federal Purposes

REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions
Image: www.dmv.pa.gov

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