Real ID verification returns to LVIA
In other news, Lehigh Valley International Airport is again hosting a Real ID Pop Up Center between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday.
Under federal law, people will need Real IDs by September 2020 to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.
Pennsylvania’s Real IDs won’t be available until March. The Pop Up Center allows people to get their paperwork in early so their Real ID applications can be processed faster. In theory, anyway.
To get a Real ID, you’ll need to present up to four forms of identification:
Either an original or certified copy of a birth certificate with a raised seal or valid U.S. passport
An un-laminated Social Security card
Proof of all legal name changes, such as a marriage certificate or court order issued by a county family court
Two proofs of your current, physical Pennsylvania address. This can include your current driver’s license and a bank statement or a utility bill that is no more than 90 days old and that includes your name and address
Anyone who got their first Pennsylvania driver’s license after September 2003 should already have provided PennDOT with these documents, but older drivers will need to catch up.
Rather than convert its entire ID card system to Real ID standards, Pennsylvania is making it optional. If you want one, you’ll need to pay two fees totaling $60.50.
The first Pop Up Center at LVIA in October ran into serious delays as PennDOT employees were ill-prepared for the long lines. Its follow-up visits fared better.
I’ve been disappointed with the pre-verification process.
A friend asked PennDOT nearly a year ago if he needed to provide any additional documentation.
The state has acknowledged his question but has yet to respond.
Alternatively, Pennsylvanians can apply for a U.S. Passport, which meets all the requirements of Real ID.
Be warned, a passport book for a first time applicant costs $145, a steep markup from a Pennsylvania Real ID.
Passport applications have not been affected by the federal shutdown.
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