
Attention North Dakota Residents: Get Ready for REAL ID in 2025!
Planning to travel in 2025? Pay attention! The North Dakota Department of Transportation has important information about the REAL ID Act and how it impacts you.
What is the REAL ID Act?
Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act was a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission to enhance security and reduce identity fraud. This law sets federal standards for issuing identification, such as driver's licenses. North Dakota's legislature approved the final implementation of REAL ID during the 65th Legislative Session in 2017, with Governor Burgum signing the bill.
Why is REAL ID Important?
Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies will only accept REAL ID-compliant credentials for official purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. Without a REAL ID, your current driver's license won't be sufficient for these activities.
Current Status in North Dakota
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has granted North Dakota a waiver, allowing the use of current ND driver's licenses and ID cards for federal purposes until May 7, 2025. After this date, only REAL ID-compliant licenses will be accepted.
How to Identify a REAL ID
REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses issued in North Dakota will feature a gold star in the upper right corner. Non-federal IDs will lack this mark.
Steps to Obtain a REAL ID
To get a REAL ID, you must provide documentation that verifies your identity, date of birth, legal presence in the U.S., and North Dakota residency. Here's what you'll need:
- Proof of Identification
- U.S. Birth Certificate (state-certified, government-issued)
- Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- Valid Permanent Resident Card or Employment Authorization Card
- Valid Foreign Passport with I-94
- Proof of Name Change (if applicable)
- Certified marriage certificate
- Certified adoption document
- Certified court order authorizing a name change
- Proof of North Dakota Residence
- Current government-issued property tax statement
- Current mortgage/lease/rental agreement
- Current utility bill (electricity, gas, water, etc.)
- School/College transcript issued within 6 months
- Current financial statement or pay stub
All documents must be original or certified copies. No photocopies or hospital certificates will be accepted.
Where to Get Documents
- For North Dakota Birth Certificates: Contact Vital Records at the North Dakota Department of Health.
- For Out-of-State Birth Certificates: Visit VitalRec or CDC.
Make sure to gather your documents and apply for a REAL ID before May 7, 2025, to avoid any travel or access issues.
For questions or assistance, contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation. Prepare now to ensure smooth travels and access to federal facilities!
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