( Iowa DOT's Ankeny Driver's license station)
(AMES, Iowa) The Iowa Department of Transportation reports 77-percent of Iowans have yet to comply with the federal Real ID anti-terrorism laws and regulations, and update their driver's license or state-issued ID card. Iowa has been issuing the cards since 2013.
Once a license or ID holder does so, they'll get a small gold star on their card, which proves they've shown extra documentation, to prove identity.
Real ID goes into effect October 1st, 2020, so there's plenty of time for Iowans to renew. Iowa DOT Spokesperson Andrea Henry tells WHO Radio News they're a little concerned that people will wait to the last minute and their service centers will be extra busy with people seeking Real ID compliance.
She notes it's not required to go through the process, however, doing so will make it easier to board a domestic flight and to enter a federal building. Without the gold star, you'll need to bring additional proof of your identity beginning October 1st, 2020.
Henry says once you get the Real-ID distinction, you do not have to go through the process again when it's time to renew your license or ID again.
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