Real ID Deadline For CT In 2020: What You Need To Know

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut residents who haven’t yet obtained a Real ID driver's license or state identification card may want to make it a New Year’s resolution in order to have an easier time flying domestically later this year.

A Real ID or other federally-approved identification such as a passport will be required to board an airplane or enter certain federal buildings come Oct. 1. Connecticut’s DMV started offering the Real ID option in 2011.

Residents who don’t have a Real ID yet, but do have a valid passport don’t need to rush out to the DMV, said Tony Guerrera, deputy commissioner of the DMV.

“It doesn’t necessarily mean you have to have it to travel,” he said about the Real ID. “You still have the option to use a passport.”

People in that situation may want to get a Real ID when it is time to renew a license, he said.
DMVs offices across the country along with partners like AAA and the DMV Express locations have worked together to raise awareness about the Real ID process, Guerrera said. There is also a major push from the federal level and airlines. (Sign Up For Patch's Free Real-Time News Alerts In CT).

Real ID driver’s licenses are adorned with a gold star in the top right corner. Residents need documents that establish citizenship or legal permanent residency, an address and a legal name. Many people opt to use a combination of a Social Security card, two pieces of current mail (or computer-generated items such as bank statements) and a birth certificate or passport. Several different document options are available and it's best to double-check documents before heading off to the DMV or other license renewal center.

Those who have a Real ID already don’t need to go through the whole document process again.

The Real ID law was passed as an extra layer of security against terrorists who would use false identification to fly or gain access to certain federal buildings.

Residents who aren't due for a renewal can convert a license for a $30 duplicate fee. Real ID is available at the DMV and partner offices like DMV Express.