Get Real

On Oct. 1, 2020, a Pennsylvania driver’s license will no longer get you on a plane at Pittsburgh International Airport because that’s when all residents must show a new form of identification called a REAL ID. REAL ID is a compliant driver’s license, photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification; such as, a valid passport or military ID which will be required to board a domestic commercial flight, enter a federal building, or military installation that requires a REAL ID.

Licenses will be available in March 2019 to Pennsylvanians who want them. Residents may provide required documentation at any of the 71 Penn DOT Driver License Centers for pre-verification. When REAL IDs are available, pre-verified residents can apply online with no need to come back to the licensing center. The cost is $60.00.

Acceptable documentation for US citizens include:
• Birth certificate with raised seal issued by an authorized government agency US or Puerto Rico.
• A valid U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
• Certificate of U.S. Citizenship (USCIS Form N-560) or
Consular Report of Birth Abroad (DOS Form FS-240)
• Certificate of Naturalization (USCIS Form N-550 or N-570)

TWO documents are needed to prove Pennsylvania residency when applying for a REAL ID:
• Current, unexpired PA driver’s license or photo ID card
• A computer-generated utility bill showing your name and address
• A W-2 form
• Tax records
• Mortgage documents
• Lease agreements
• Loan documents

For a lawful permanent resident, non-citizen, proof of legal name, date of birth, and/or gender designation change, please visit www.penndot.gov/REALID.

SOURCE: Pittsburgh International Airport NEWS ON THE FLY

Jo is the Owner of Anywhere Travel, LLC. She creates vacations for groups or individuals.