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REAL ID Deadline Set for January 10
Photo by Mónica Ortiz Uribe
New Mexico's driver's licenses don't comply with federally mandated REAL ID standards which require applicants show proof of legal U.S. residency.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is giving states that haven't complied with the federally mandated REAL ID Act yet another a chance to get an extension ahead of its Jan. 10 deadline.
To get an extension, states must submit a plan to DHS that ensures they'll be compliant with REAL ID in the next year. In New Mexico, which was denied an extension in October, the governor and state lawmakers must show proof that they'll pass a law in their upcoming legislative session that will make the state compliant.
After Jan. 10, ID cards from states that haven't complied with the new standards or haven't received a temporary exemption may not be accepted at federal facilities like military bases.
The REAL ID Act makes stricter demands on the way states issue ID cards and drivers licenses, including proof of legal U.S. residency. The law was passed in 2005 in response to the 9-11 terrorist attacks. DHS has issued multiple extensions for states to implement its requirements.
Arizona received an extension earlier this year and is expected to begin issuing REAL ID compliant licenses next April.