BOISE, Idaho — In the wake of 9/11, Congress passed the Real ID Act aimed at inhibiting terrorists' ability to evade detection. And while all can agree public safety is important, some are saying the list of documents the DMV requires is more than they can easily provide.
For those looking to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building past October 1, 2020, you'll need to get a Star Card if you don't have a US Passport or Military ID.
"You have to bring in your proof of ID, so that could be either your birth certificate, or you can also use your passport," said Vincent Trimboli, Communication Manager, Idaho Transportation Department.
Those who already have passports can fly without a Star Card as long as they bring the passport with them every time. So if it comes down to you needing a birth certificate (they require the original, not copy), you may share the same frustration as Sarah Bingham.
"I don't have my birth certificate lying around from Colorado, so I had to request that from Colorado and there's of course the fees too," said Bingham, Star Card applicant.
Then, to prove she is the person on her certificate, she said the DMV needed proof of her name change in the form of a marriage license-- and not just any copy.
"I need a special marriage license one that is signed and sealed by the state," said Bingham.
She also needed two proofs or residency, and a non-laminated social security card or W-2 form.
"It's just a lot more of a hassle than I think people in the public really realize," said Bingham.
One local advocate was particularly concerned with how this will affect those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, or "IDD."
"We have a travel program, a recreation, and vacation experience program-- so people will fly," said Nicole Lang, Director of Development, The Arc Idaho.
She says for people with IDD, finding those documents will be a struggle.
"Not everyone has access to all of those documents. Just for instance, that perhaps if someone is older-- someone with IDD is older-- their parents might have all of that, then they moved out independently or even into assisted living," said Lang.
Lang's nonprofit group The Arc is currently working to help folks they serve with tracking those down.
Trimboli says they can also help provide guidance with that.
"If people need additional help beyond what we send them or if they need more help than just looking at the website, they can give us a call, at (208) 334-8000.
Lang would like to remind those with loved ones with IDD to start help them in thinking about the the Real ID Act and see that they become prepared for October 1 of next year.
To learn more about the Star Card requirements, use this online tool here.
