Minnesotans Can File for REAL ID

Starting today, Minnesotans will be able to apply for a REAL ID-compliant card, but they will have two years to obtain one if they choose. That means Minnesotans will be able to use their standard licenses and ID cards for federal purposes until October 1, 2020.

The Minnesota Legislature passed a law that directs The Department of Public Safety to make REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards available by today. Work to meet that deadline continues, even though the federal government won’t require driver’s licenses and IDs to be REAL ID-compliant until Oct. 1, 2020.

DPS-DVS and Minnesota IT Services (MNIT) contracted with FAST Enterprises to develop a new driver services system that will produce REAL IDs.

REAL ID is a federal requirement that establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses, and will be one of three options for Minnesotans when they renew their driver’s license or ID card.