Connecticut REAL ID: What You Need to Know
Starting in May 2023, you’ll need to have a REAL ID-compliant license or ID if you want to use it to board a domestic flight.
Written by Kevin Martinez
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Starting on May 3, 2023, you’ll need to upgrade to a
Connecticut
REAL ID if you want to use your driver’s license
or identification to board a domestic flight as per the 2005 REAL ID Act.Your driver’s license is more than just, well, your driver’s license. Not only does it allow you to operate your car legally, but it serves as one of the most crucial pieces of identification you can carry. Starting in May 2023, your Connecticut driver’s license will have to get a much-needed upgrade to become a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
You’re probably thinking, well, what is a REAL-ID? Rest assured,
Jerry
, the car insurance
super app, is here to break all things REAL ID down for you. Everything you’ll need to know, from what is a REAL ID to how to get one in Connecticut, can be found in this article here.
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What is a REAL ID?
In a post-9/11 world, there have been continuous conversations about how to create a better system that protects national security interests. As a result, following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission, Congress enacted the REAL ID ACT in 2005, which plans to create a new uniform standard for identification purposes nationwide. And, you guessed it—the act applies to driver’s licenses.
Although the rollout has been slow due to external factors, the act is set to be put into place and legally enforced by 2023.
Who needs a REAL ID?
Starting on May 3, 2023, a REAL ID will be required nationwide in order to do the following:
- Obtain entry to federal facilities, such as a military base.
- Gain access to nuclear power plant facilities.
- Board a commercial aircraft—especially for domestic flights.
Unless you work at a federal facility or need access to a nuclear power plant facility for any reason, chances are these laws won’t have much affect on your daily life. However, if you’re planning to use your Connecticut driver’s license as a way to prove your identity before TSA to get on a domestic flight, you’ll need to change your license to a REAL-ID compliant one by 2023.
Remember that even if you don’t get a REAL ID by the 2023 deadline, you’ll still be able to board a flight by demonstrating other forms of acceptable identification. Check out the
TSA’s website
on what other acceptable forms of ID they will accept instead of a driver’s license or ID.Key Takeaway: The REAL ID Act strives to set a new nationwide standard on what constitutes legal identification, which is set to be enforced starting May 2023.
How to get a Connecticut REAL ID?
To change or even obtain a Connecticut REAL-ID, you’ll want to do the following steps:
- Take advantage of Connecticut’s DMV’sonline document checklistto gather all important paperwork and documentation needed.
- Make an appointment at your local DMV or DMV express offices.
- Submit all documentation and payment at the time of appointment.
If you are due for renewal at the exchange time, you will have to pay $72 for a 6-year renewal or $96 for an 8-year renewal. If you are NOT renewing and just want to obtain a REAL ID, you’ll be subject to a $30 fee.
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How to save money on car insurance in Connecticut
Having a REAL-ID compliant Connecticut license after May 2023 will ensure that you have no issues getting on a domestic flight. If you wish, your car can get you just as far, too, especially if you have the right
car insurance
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FAQs
Do I need a REAL ID?
The best way to see whether or not you’ll need a REAL ID is by going to the Department of Homeland Security’s website, where they’ve provided a
list of acceptable identification documents.
If you’re planning on boarding a domestic flight after May 2023, you’ll need to have a REAL-ID compliant license.
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