Your Mass. Driving license might not be legitimate for journey in 2025

Earlier in 2024 I needed to renew my license for the 2nd time earlier than my birthday. Thankfully, I used to be capable of course of the transaction on-line since I had no cause to go to the RMV in particular person since all my data are updated.

Nevertheless, for some, they might not be so fortunate as a result of there’s a deadline approaching for one thing particular that you’ll want in your driver’s license or ID. This is called a “REAL ID.”

What’s a REAL ID?

In keeping with LoPriore Insurance AgencyA REAL ID is a type of identification that meets enhanced safety requirements for government-issued driver’s licenses and ID playing cards. It was handed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 assaults, because the REAL ID Act was geared toward stopping airline terrorism via the necessities for paperwork granted, corresponding to entry to home plane and particular federal businesses, to strengthen.

For us Massachusetts residents, this is a crucial step in enhancing safety measures, and the Commonwealth has been proactive in implementing the measures required by regulation.

Do I really want a REAL ID in Massachusetts?

No, however it might be extra handy to have just one ID card as an alternative of a number of identification playing cards for various functions. For instance, when you fly domestically and shouldn’t have a passport or different type of TSA-approved identification, you have to enter navy bases or nuclear services, or you have to go to federal courthouses, federal prisons, or different federal services that require identification.

If you happen to resolve to not get an actual ID, you’ll be topic to “strict limits” and won’t have the star image printed within the higher proper nook. The deadline is Might 7, 2025 for all Massachusetts to obtain their REAL ID. Simply make an appointment or go to your native Massachusetts RMV. Carry all essential paperwork with you, even when you submitted them on-line. Pay the charge in your license renewal.