West Virginia urges residents to get Real ID ahead of May deadline

Next week, the federal government will start enforcing the requirement of a Real ID to board domestic flights and enter some federally owned buildings. Driver's licenses can only be upgraded in person at a regional DMV office.

CHARLESTON The West Virginia Department of Transportation is encouraging residents to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license ahead of a federal enforcement deadline next week.

Starting Wednesday, May 5, anyone who wants to board a commercial flight or enter certain federal buildings must show a Real ID or an acceptable alternative. The Real ID includes a gold star at the top right-hand corner to indicate it meets federal standards. When applying for a driver’s license at a Division of Motor Vehicles office, the applicant would have requested an ID to be “For Federal Use.”

To obtain a Real ID, applicants must visit a regional Division of Motor Vehicles office in person. An ID cannot be changed from non-federal to federal online. Required documents include proof of identity – such as a U.S. birth certificate or passport – proof of Social Security number, and two documents showing physical residence in West Virginia. Those with a name change must also provide proof of the change. Moreover, residents renewing an ID must provide updated documents if their address has changed since their last issuance.

Appointments can be made at apps.wv.gov/Appt/DMV, and document pre-approval is available for a small fee at go.wv.gov/realidheadstart.

Transportation officials are encouraging early action to avoid last-minute delays as the federal deadline approaches.

PHOTO | DHS