By Sen. Kent Williams
I want to take a moment to remind everyone that on and after October 1, 2020, you must have a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card, or another federally approved identification, such as a valid US Passport or military ID, to board a domestic, commercial flight, enter a secure federal building, or visit a military installation. If you will not be doing any of these activities, you will not need a REAL ID.
If you do not switch to a REAL ID but have another federally accepted form of identification, such as a valid US Passport or military ID, you may use this as your identification to board a domestic, commercial flight, enter a secure federal building, or visit a military installation after September 30, 2020.
I strongly encourage anyone that might possibly consider flying or visiting a military base to obtain a REAL ID. A REAL ID driver’s license or identification card will cost $25.
Please note that you must have original or government-issued copies of all documents. SCDMV will not accept copied or scanned versions. To get a REAL ID, you will need:
• Proof of identity – a government issued birth certificate or valid US passport
• Proof of Social Security Number (your SS card or a W-2 that has your name, SSN, and employer’s name)
• Two proofs of current, physical South Carolina address (a current, unexpired SC driver’s license or identification card and a no more than 90-day-old utility bill with the same name and address)
• Proof of all legal name changes (marriage license or court order issued by your county’s probate or family court.)
You must show a complete name change history that links your birth certificate name to your present day name.
If you have a valid U.S. passport or U.S. passport card with your current, legal name, you may use that as your name change document.
If you received your first SC beginner’s permit, license, or ID during or after November 2010, the SCDMV should have your documents on file. If you think you may fall into this category, call 803-896-5000 to check the status of your documents or complete the “REAL ID Document Check” on the DMV website.
Again, I want to stress the importance of having a REAL ID.
If you do not switch to a REAL ID and do not have another federally accepted form of identification, such as a valid US Passport or military ID, you will not be able to board a domestic, commercial flight, enter a secure federal building, or visit a military installation after September 30, 2020.
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As with all matters concerning state government, I want to hear your opinions and suggestions concerning these issues. Please contact me in my Columbia office located at 608 Gressette Office Building. You can reach me, or a member of my staff in Columbia at (803) 212-6000 or by fax at (803) 212-6011.
My district office is located at 2523 East Highway 76, Marion, SC 29571, the phone number is (843) 423-8237 and the fax number is (843) 431-6049. You may also email me at kentwilliams@ scsenate.gov. My business phone is (843) 423-3904. Please use this information to write, call or e-mail me with your suggestions and concerns regarding issues before the Senate and in our community.