PennDOT begins pre-verifying residents on Tuesday to receive REAL IDs.[br /][br /]This means, when REAL IDs are available in March 2019, customers can apply for their REAL ID online instead of having to go back to the driver license center.[br /]
[br /]Pennsylvanians will eventually have to show the new kind of ID to board domestic commercial flights, if you don't have a passport or another approved form of identification.[br /][br /][b]Getting a REAL ID is optional and not necessary to drive.[/b][br /][br /]Beginning October 1, 2020, in order to fly or enter a federal building or military installation that require ID, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID compliant driver's license, identification card, or acceptable, alternative ID that's approved by the TSA such as a valid passport or military ID.[br /][br /][youtube ID="Q2t4UsvLVg0" /][br /][br /]Federal Real ID standards take effect in Pennsylvania on October 10, 2018, although the Wolf administration is asking the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for an extension.[br /][br /]PennDOT says until May 2017, Pennsylvania law prohibited them from complying with the federal REAL ID Act. Act 3 of 2017 repealed this prior legislation and allowed PennDOT to seek REAL ID compliance.[br /][br /]In order to pre-qualify, PennDOT will need to verify your identity, your social security number, and your Pennsylvania residency, even if you already have a Pennsylvania driver's license or photo ID card.[br /][br /]PennDOT's 71 Driver's License Centers will be equipped to verify these documents for customers who want a REAL ID.[br /]