What is STAR ID and how does it affect me?

     I recently did a live video on my Facebook page about STAR ID (if you missed it, you can catch it here https://www.facebook.com/jvicktravel/videos/651574831967467/ ).
     As promised, here is a written version of that blog to maybe help understand the information better.

     What is the purpose of STAR ID?

     STAR ID, or REAL ID serves three purposes: (1) to access federal facilities (2) to enter nuclear power plants (3) and to board federally regulated commercial air crafts (www.dhs.gov/real-id).  Basically, STAR ID is one more step to ensure the identity of people boarding domestic flights. We have a system in place for boarding international flights- the passport. Because of the passports, we know the background and identity of the person flying. However, for domestic flights, we only have a driver license, which does not require the number of identification documents as a passport does. Essentially, we're trying to make sure our domestic flights are safer. 

When did all of this come about?

     The REAL ID act was passed in 2005, essentially a result of 9/11 to make domestic flights safer. Even though it was enacted over 10 years ago, the deadline to have the REAL ID in use is October 2020. This is why you may have seen some articles floating around Facebook about it. We are getting closer to the deadline, so it's crucial we know all about it. 

What actually is STAR ID?

     So we know a little of the history and the purpose, what actually is STAR ID? STAR ID is literally a star at the top right corner of  your driver's license. Depending on the stat you live in, the star may be gold or black. The star indicates that you have shown the necessary documentation to prove your identity. Once you prove this, your new license will have the star on it. 

What will the STAR ID prove?

     The REAL ID or STAR ID aims to verify three things about you: your identity/birthday, Social Security Number, and address of principal residence (alea.gov).  In order to prove these three things, you must bring supporting documents to prove each one. Here is a list of supporting documents that you can bring with you to get your STAR ID.

     Bring one of the following documents to prove your identity/date of birth:

- valid, unexpired passport

- certified birth certificate

- unexpired US Visa

- other acceptable documents can be found at alea.gov

     

     Bring one of the following documents to prove your Social Security number:

- Social Security card

- US military form DD 214

- Medicare/Medicaid ID card

- W-2 tax form 

     Bring TWO of the following documents to prove your address of principal residence:

- voter registration card

- current rent or lease agreement

- current mortgage contract

- proof of payment of residential property tax

- previous year tax return

- current vehicle registration

- utility bill less than 90 days old

- any state or federal court documents with the correct address

- school enrollment document

- defense department form 214

- current homeowners insurance policy

- US or state government check or other document

- military orders documenting duty station and place of residence 

     You must bring these 4 documents in order to get the STAR ID. 

Where do I get the STAR ID?

     Before you head down to the DMV, you need to check with your DMV first. For example, I went to the DMV in Tuscaloosa to get my STAR ID. However, I could not get it there. In Alabama, you can only get the STAR ID in Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License exam offices. For me, I went to the state trooper's office across town and got it done. If you need help figuring out where to go. let me know, and I will gladly help you. 

When do I need this done by?

     Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia must be STAR ID compliant by October 2020.  That means you must have the star on your ID by October 1, 2020.  I would highly suggest getting it done sooner than later.  To know if your state is compliant with STAR ID, go to https://www.dhs.gov/real-id to check out their compliant map. 

For more information, you can visit any of the following government websites:
www.dhs.gov/real-id

alea.gov/dps/driver-license/star-id

dds.georgia.gov

dhs.gov/real-id/mississippi 

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at heritagetravelandevents@gmail.com.