Real ID deadline is next Wednesday

COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) — With the federal REAL ID deadline fast approaching next Wednesday May 7th , Branch County residents are being reminded to upgrade their driver’s licenses or state IDs to comply with new domestic travel regulations. Starting Wednesday , a REAL ID-compliant document, marked by a gold star or Michigan silhouette star in the upper right corner, will be required to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases and nuclear power plants.

 

To obtain a REAL ID, residents must visit a Secretary of State office with their current license or ID, a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate, and, if applicable, a certified name-change document like a marriage license. The process is free during renewal, but a $9 fee applies for licenses and $10 for IDs outside the renewal period. Enhanced licenses, which also serve as REAL ID, are automatically  compliant.

The Branch County’s Secretary of State office is encouraging residents to book appointments online at michigan.gov/SOS to manage demand. Those with valid U.S. passports or enhanced licenses are already compliant and need no action. For more information, contact the Department of State Information Center at (888) SOS-MICH.