On October 18, the US Department of Homeland Security formally granted Minnesota a one year extension to comply with federal REAL ID standards. The new extension will expire on October 10, 2018. The extension gives Minnesota enough time to prepare to issue compliant licenses. Legislation passed during the 2017 session instructs the Minnesota Department of Public safety to begin providing an option for REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses beginning October 2018.

“Finishing REAL ID was one of our top priorities this year,” said Sen. Julie Rosen (R-Vernon Center). “When federal officials announced they would begin implementing new REAL ID standards early in 2018, it became even more urgent. This extension means families who plan to fly, access a military base, or enter a federal building will be able to do so hassle free — Minnesotans can continue using their current licenses for all federal purposes until next October, which will buy the Department of Public Safety the time it needs to begin issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses.”

The bipartisan legislation signed into law provides a two-tier system. Minnesotans will be able to choose between upgrading to a REAL ID compliant license at no additional cost, or continue using their current non-compliant driver’s license if they do not plan to use it for traveling or entering federal buildings or military bases. It’s important to note that passports are and will continue to be REAL ID compliant.