To accommodate the REAL ID requirements put into effect October 1, 2020, Michigan residents are being issued new, REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state IDs.
The new Michigan driver’s license and state ID cards feature a star in the upper corner, easily identifying them as REAL ID compliant:
Current license holders are not required to immediately change their license, but will need to specifically apply for one at license renewal. If a REAL ID-compliant application is not specified, Michigan residents will receive a license or ID card that is still valid for driving or age-restricted purchases, but will have a “Not for Federal Identification” mark, deeming the card invalid for air travel, federal facilities and military bases.
Exceptions
If Michigan residents have a valid U.S. Passport, or if they have an ‘enhanced license’ featuring an American Flag on the front, these forms of identification pass for REAL ID compliance. Additionally, if residents do not plan to travel by air or enter federal facilities, the conversion will not be necessary for them.
How to Convert to a Michigan REAL ID-Compliant License/ID Card
To acquire a new REAL ID-compliant license, Michigan residents will need to bring a certified copy of their birth certificate (or legal citizenship papers if not born in the US) as well as any legal name change documents to a Secretary of State office in person.
For more information, visit the Michigan Secretary Of State website.