I have been to our local DMV four times

A bright pink notice hit our registration renewals before Covid

Having passports, we can fly most anywhere, and technically would not need this “Real ID.”

But fear of theft or losing this bulkier document has inspired us to get what they suggest before May 3rd, 2023 * the newest GO date.

“Beginning May 3, 2023, Pennsylvanians will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license/photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight or enter a federal building or military installation that requires ID.” (From PA DOT, dmv.pa.gov website.)

Our small DMV office only does this service on Wed. They used to only accept check or money order. *today they will process a card, yippee

You must have:

PA Driver’s License

Birth Certificate or valid Passport (not expired)

Original Social Security card

A bill or formal document with your name and proof of current address-that matches the license

$60.50 as they “must renew your license at the same time” tacking on rounded off years left on your license

For God’s sake, use the existing photo! Do not be vain & opt for a new photo!

After my verifications, documents signed, payment rendered, “You have to take a blue number and stand in line.”

I was standing nine inches from a small camera at the counter. *Remember fourth visit due to covid or wait time or not having correct payment method, I mistakenly said new photo.

I turn around to see forty-five individuals holding blue tickets. “Oh no, no, I will use the old picture.”

“Sorry, I cannot reissue once I click P instead of D, you have to go through with getting new.”

“So you want me to wait behind all of these people?”

“Yes.”

“I cannot do that today, can I come back?”

“Yes.”

“Why do you have this camera right here?”

“Oh, we never take photos on this side.”

“And how would I have known that? Don’t you think it would have been better, even helpful, if you had told me I would have an additional wait if I opted for a new photo?”

No answer

I left in a huff and cursed aloud in the parking lot. I was feeling beaten after all the rigamarole of gathering documents, figuring out the one day they provide the service, time, money, gas… so not worth my energy.

I now look forward to a fifth visit to probably get another crappy picture on something suggested we have, but we really don’t need…

“Beginning May 3, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.” (From tsa.gov/real-id.)

#timeisprecious #bureaucracy #passport #driverslicense #security #stategovernments