News Summary
The deadline for Georgia residents to obtain a REAL ID for air travel and federal access is approaching on May 7. Over 99% of Georgians are already compliant with the REAL ID requirements, which enhance security and prevent identity fraud. As the date nears, concerns about scams targeting residents have emerged. Travelers without a REAL ID should prepare for longer security checks at airports, and additional forms of ID are advised to ensure smooth access to federal facilities. The REAL ID cards are valid for eight years and cost $32.
Atlanta, Georgia – The deadline for Americans to comply with the REAL ID requirements is fast approaching, with May 7 marking the last day to obtain the identification necessary for air travel and federal access. This deadline arrives nearly 20 years after the original REAL ID legislation was enacted in response to security concerns following the September 11 attacks.
Currently, over 99% of Georgia residents are already compliant with the REAL ID standards, making it one of the leading states in implementation. The REAL ID system increases security and improves information sharing to prevent identity fraud and enhance safety measures in federal environments.
In Georgia, citizens are required to renew their driver’s licenses every eight years. Those who renewed their licenses after 2012 have typically been issued a REAL ID. A REAL ID can be identified by a small gold or black star located in a circle at the top right corner of state-issued identification documents.
To access U.S. military bases, federal buildings, and nuclear facilities, as well as to travel by air, a REAL ID is now a necessity. At the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, recognized as the world’s busiest airport, there are preparations in place to manage the transition effectively. Travelers without a REAL ID should anticipate waiting at least three hours for security checks, exceeding the standard two-hour recommendation. This is crucial, as those without a REAL ID may undergo additional security screenings or potentially be denied access altogether.
For those unable to obtain a REAL ID by the deadline, alternate forms of identification are accepted at security checkpoints. Valid U.S. passports, military IDs, and tribal IDs can facilitate entry through security for air travel. It is advised that passengers lacking a REAL ID also consider bringing additional forms of identification, such as a birth certificate or Social Security card, to assist with the verification process.
The enforcement of the REAL ID mandate stems from a 2005 requirement in the REAL ID Act, which was influenced by safety recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. The law aims to establish strong security standards for state-issued IDs to prevent fraudulent identification. Currently, the federal government has emphasized that failure to possess a REAL ID or alternative identification may impact air travel and access to federal facilities; however, there are no fining penalties for non-compliance at this stage.
Despite the high compliance rate among Georgians, ongoing concerns have emerged regarding potential scams targeting residents due to the upcoming deadline. Cybersecurity experts caution that scammers may attempt to collect personal information through fraudulent emails and phone calls, highlighting the importance of vigilance when sharing sensitive data.
Obtaining a REAL ID in Georgia entails visiting a Customer Service Center operated by the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Individuals must present required documents, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and evidence of Georgia residency. The REAL ID cards are valid for eight years and come at a cost of $32.
In conclusion, while the compliance deadline approaches, most Georgians have successfully navigated the process of obtaining a REAL ID. The implementation of this identification standard is intended to bolster security across the nation, and citizens are encouraged to verify their compliance status to avoid disruptions in travel and access to vital federal services.
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: REAL ID Compliance Deadline
- Wikipedia: REAL ID Act
- Fox 5 Atlanta: REAL ID Deadline at Atlanta Airport
- Google Search: REAL ID Deadline Georgia
- Patch: How to Travel in GA Without REAL ID
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Identification Process
- WGAU Radio: REAL ID Deadline Approaching
- Google News: REAL ID Georgia
