Real ID deadline extended 1 year over coronavirus pandemic

Paul Guggenheimer | Thursday, March 26, 2020 3:06 p.m.

People concerned about getting a Real ID by October have been given a reprieve.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Thursday that the deadline has been pushed back one year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Protecting both the health and national security of the American people continues to be the top priority for the President of the United States and the Department of Homeland Security,” the department posted in a statement.

The new date for Real ID enforcement is now Oct. 1, 2021. It was originally scheduled for Oct. 1, 2020.

Due to circumstances resulting from the #coronavirus pandemic and the national emergency declaration, DHS, as directed by President Trump, is extending the REAL ID enforcement deadline. More: https://t.co/hxTGJKxk1k

— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) March 26, 2020

Earlier this month PennDOT appealed to Homeland Security to extend the deadline. The appeal came amid other changes made by PennDOT amid the coronavirus pandemic including the closure of all drivers license and photo license centers and pausing Real ID issuance in the state.

“We are very pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has listened to our concerns, as well as the concerns from our fellow states regarding the need for a postponement on Real ID enforcement in the midst of this national emergency,” said PennDOT Acting Secretary Yassmin Gramian.

Separately, Congress included language in the $2 trillion supplemental appropriations package that would extend the deadline for Real ID until Sept. 30, 2021.

Passed by Congress after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Real ID Act establishes federal security standards for state driver’s licenses and ID cards. A Real ID-compliant driver’s license is not necessary for driving and other routine ID requirements.