Real ID deadline is approaching

The deadline is quickly approaching to acquire a Real ID to fly domestically.

Starting on May 7, anyone 18 years of age or older will need a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification to fly domestically or visit certain Federal and military facilities, as well as enter nuclear power plants.

A valid passport or military ID will be able used in lieu of the Real ID for domestic commercial flights.

The Real ID is denoted as a star icon on your driver’s license.

Though the Real ID is optional for Pennsylvanians, according to the commonwealth’s website, the state Department of Transportation is hosting “Real ID Days” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday — dedicated days where people can get their documents verified and imaged.

They will take place at the following locations:

• New Kensington Driver License Center: 1600 Greensburg Road, New Kensington, PA 15068 (Allegheny County)
• Malvern Driver License Center: 225 Lancaster Avenue, Malvern, PA 19355 (Chester County)
• Indiana Driver License Center: 2334 Oakland Avenue, Indiana, PA 15701 (Indiana County)
• Arch Street Driver License Center: 801 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Philadelphia County)
• Selinsgrove Driver License Center: 1015 Route 522, Selinsgrove, PA 17870 (Snyder County)
• Montrose Driver License Center: 78 Grow Avenue, Montrose, PA 18801 (Susquehanna County)

People will receive their Real ID in the mail within 15 days, the commonwealth said.

A list of future Real ID Days’ times and locations across Pennsylvania can be found online.

In order to receive a Real ID, people must bring original versions or certified copies of the following documents:

• Proof of identity: An original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the state office of vital records with a raised/embossed seal — issued by an authorized government agency or a valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or passport card
• Proof of Social Security Number: A Social Security card, W-2 form, SSA-1099 form, non-SSA-1099 form or pay stub (proof must display current legal name and full nine digits of the Social Security Number)
• Two proofs of current, physical Pennsylvania address: A current, unexpired state license or ID, or a PA vehicle registration, auto insurance card or utility bill with the same name and address
• Proof of all legal name changes (if applicable): A certified marriage certificate, court order or adoption decree issued by your county’s family court

A full checklist is provided online by PennDOT.