The deadline to apply for the new Real ID in Texas has arrived. This new measure requires an update of the identification documents by the Department of Public Security, in order to strengthen the country’s security. If you have run out of time and have not requested your new documentation before the deadline, the process will now be a bit more tedious, but mandatory, because without your Real ID you can not identify yourself in a valid way or even travel!
Real ID
The introduction of the Real ID was a response to the need of the United States to strengthen security after 11-S. The state of Texas has already met its deadline and the number of citizens who have not applied for re-identification is considerable. If any doubt remains, let us review the requirements and aspects to be taken into account when carrying out this process.
Eligibility
Logically, not everyone can apply for the Real ID, but they have to meet certain requirements. In the case of Texas, you must be an American citizen or hold a permanent resident visa, live permanently in the state and have a valid driver’s license. If you do not have a driving license yet, at least meet the requirements for obtaining one.
Watch out! If your driver’s license validity date is about to expire, you will probably need to renew it before you can apply for your Real ID. On the other hand, if you have recently lived in Texas, you will first need to be a holder of a valid driver’s license in the state and then you can apply for the Real ID. Logically, those with pending legal issues will not be able to apply for their new identification until the cases are resolved.
Get your documents ready
To verify your identity in this process will not be enough to have a valid driver’s license for the state. There are a number of documents that you will need to have up-to-date at the time of application for it to be effective. Take notes. Whether copies or originals, these will be the documents you must submit to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
- Proof of Identity. It is compulsory that you provide some kind of valid documentation to prove your identity, not just the old ID. The office is requesting as evidence the US passport and even the birth certificate! No provision is made to guarantee security. If you are not born in the States, you must present a permanent residence card.
- Residency proofs. The administration has to verify that your residence is in this state. For them, you will have to provide two documents with your name and current address, such as the rental contract or mortgage payment receipt, supply receipts or insurance policies. If your name does not appear on the invoices because you share apartment, the holder will have to sign a resident affidavit.
- Social Security Number. Whether it’s a receipt that shows your full security number or your social security card, this document is essential for federal validation.
Step by step
It´s an easy peasy process if you follow these steps: get your documents ready, book for an appointment, complete the application and pay the fee and, finally, receive your Real ID. You will not have to pay any penalty for delaying your application, but please note that your current ID is not valid for travel or entering federal buildings.
FAQ
As an answer to the questions most frequently asked during this process; no, it cannot be requested online, you will be able to check its veracity by checking the golden star in the upper right corner and finally, if you do not have a Real ID, you will not be able to travel or access federal institutions.
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