The statement "Not for Federal Identification" appearing on Alabama driver's licenses, and those of several other states, is a direct result of the REAL ID Act of 2005. This federal law established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and dictates which documents are acceptable for federal identification purposes, such as boarding federally regulated aircraft or entering federal facilities.
Understanding the REAL ID Act
The REAL ID Act was enacted in response to the September 11th terrorist attacks. The goal was to improve the security of state-issued identification documents to prevent terrorism and identity theft. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, requiring states to comply with these standards to ensure their licenses are acceptable as federal identification.
Why Alabama Licenses Might Specify "Not for Federal Identification"
Alabama's driver's license might display the "Not for Federal Identification" disclaimer for several reasons:
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Non-Compliance with REAL ID Standards: Initially, many states, including Alabama, chose not to immediately comply with all the requirements of the REAL ID Act. This non-compliance led to their licenses being deemed unacceptable for federal identification purposes. The disclaimer served as a clear indication to the holder that the license did not meet the federal standards.
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Transitional Period: Even after a state begins the process of complying with REAL ID, there can be a transition period where older licenses, issued before full compliance, remain valid for state purposes but not for federal ones. The disclaimer helps prevent confusion during this phase.
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Specific Document Requirements: The REAL ID Act mandates specific documents needed to obtain a compliant license. If an individual obtained an Alabama license without providing the required documentation, the license wouldn't meet federal standards, hence the disclaimer.
What Does This Mean for Alabama Residents?
If your Alabama driver's license carries this disclaimer, it signifies that it does not meet the federal standards for identification. This means you cannot use it for:
- Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft: You'll need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport.
- Accessing secure federal facilities: Gaining entry to federal buildings and military bases will require a different form of ID.
- Other federal purposes: Various other federal situations might require REAL ID-compliant identification.
Obtaining a REAL ID-Compliant Alabama License
Alabama now offers REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses. To obtain one, you'll need to visit your local Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Driver License office and provide the required documentation, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. The specific requirements are detailed on the ALEA website. Be prepared to spend some time at the office; obtaining a REAL ID-compliant license generally involves more steps than getting a standard state driver's license.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. For the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding Alabama driver's licenses and REAL ID compliance, refer to the official website of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
