Plan on flying somewhere this coming summer? If so, you will need an Oregon REAL ID.

The federally mandated requirement to fly with a REAL ID driver’s licenses or identification cards begins May 7, just in time for summer vacations. Older style of DMV-issued identification will no longer be valid for air travel.

What is REAL ID?

REAL ID is simply an updated version of the current driver’s license or identification card with new security features that make it more difficult to counterfeit. It is mandated by the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.

The act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued identification cards. REAL ID was originally intended to roll out in 2008 but has been repeatedly delayed.

Who needs one and why?

Travelers will need a REAL ID, passport or military ID to pass through airport security starting May 7. A driver’s license or identification card that is not REAL ID compliant will still be valid for use after May 7, you just won’t be able to fly with it.

REAL ID will also be needed to enter certain federal facilities.

Getting an old-style ID will still be possible. However, your new card will be labeled “Not for REAL ID Act” and can’t be used to board a flight.

How many Oregonians have REAL ID?

According to Chris Crabb, a public information officer with Oregon DMV, Oregon has 3,719,825 total driver’s license/ID holders:

• 1,158,389 (31.1%) have been issued a REAL ID credential

•1,743,199 (46.9%) have been issued a “Not for REAL ID Act” credential.

• 818,232 (22%) have an old style credential not marked either REAL ID compliant or non-compliant.

Crabb adds that 51% of Oregonians have a passport, which serves as a REAL ID.

How do I get a REAL ID?

Apply at an Oregon DMV office. Applying online is not an option, but you can book an in-person appointment at DMV2U.oregon.gov.

Different documents are needed for proof of identity, name and residence address. A Social Security number is needed if you are eligible for one. You can verbally state the number; the card is not needed. The ID costs $30, on top of the regular fees. A current Class C driver’s license is $64, for example, so a REAL ID license costs $94.

Documents, must be originals or certified copies. Electronic or photocopies won’t be accepted.

What is the wait time?

Once all necessary documents are gathered and submitted at a DMV office, you’ll receive a temporary paper ID card that can be used until the REAL ID plastic card arrives in the mail, which usually takes two weeks, said Crabb. The Transportation Security Administration does not accept the temporary paper card, so it’s best to wait until the permanent card arrives before booking a flight.

As the May 7 date approaches and demand rises, there is an expectation for a slowdown in the application process. Crabb said applications for REAL ID are increasing. Application numbers for passports and birth certificates are also expected to rise in the coming months.

“We are urging people to avoid the rush and get their REAL ID sooner than later,” said Crabb. “Taking the time to get the REAL ID now will likely save you waiting in long lines the closer we get to the deadline.”

What documents are needed?

The DMV will require multiple documents proving your age, identity and address. For most people, this means bringing a birth certificate or passport, driver’s license and tax form such as a W-2. Two documents proving address are required. Those who have changed their name through marriage will need to provide a marriage certificate.

The following is an abbreviated list of required documents. Oregon DMV has a printable list of all potential documents.

Proof of identity (one unexpired document)

• U.S. passport or U.S. passport card *

• U.S. birth certificate

• Certificate of citizenship or naturalization

* Note that some recently issued passports may not verify, so bring a second document if possible.

Proof of name

If your true full name is not listed on the proof of identity document you submit, one additional document is needed with your true full name. Documents can include:

• Oregon driver’s license expired no more than 13 years

• Out-of-state driver’s license expired no more than one year

• Military ID

• Official government-issued marriage certificate

Proof of address

Two documents must show your current name and current Oregon residential address. Note that the documents must be from two different sources:

• Oregon driver’s license expired no more than 13 years

• Any item delivered by the U.S. Postal Service, FedEX, or UPS sent by a verifiable business or government agency.

• Utility document issued by the service provider

• Rental/lease agreement

• Paycheck, pay stub, W-2 or 1099 tax form

REAL ID fun facts

• While you can upgrade your driver’s license to REAL ID anytime, switching to REAL ID does not change the expiration date on your driver’s license.

• Once you have REAL ID, you can renew/replace it online in the future.

• If you are traveling anywhere outside the U.S., including Canada and Mexico, you will still need a passport.Reporter: 541-617-7818, mkohn@bendbulletin.com