To accommodate local citizens, County Clerk Bill Knowles has announced the Hamilton County Clerk’s Courthouse office will partner with the Tennessee Department of Safety in issuing the REAL ID Tennessee Driver’s License beginning July 1. Motorists may also make application at a state driver’s license resting station.
A REAL ID license is not required to drive, vote, prove identification when making purchases, access hospitals, visit the post office, access federal courts, or apply for and receive federal benefits such as social security or veterans’ benefits.
The law does mandate all persons 18 years of age and older beginning Oct.
1, 2020, to have a REAL ID license or a valid unexpired passport for boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, accessing most federal buildings, and entering nuclear facilities. Motorists not needing clearance for either of the above reasons are not required to upgrade their driver’s license or identification card with the REAL ID designation. These motorists may choose to continue maintaining a regular state driver’s license.
The state and federal application process for obtaining a REAL ID requires considerable documents and information to apply for the upgrade. Applicants must present an original birth certificate or valid, unexpired U.S. passport along with an original social security card or their original IRS W-2/1099 form (within the last 12 months) displaying their full social security number and two proofs of Tennessee residency from the State’s list of acceptable documents.
Two proof of residency documents required include residential gas, electric, or a water utility bill issued within the last four months. Also, a current Tennessee vehicle registration receipt, bank statement dated within the last four months, IRS tax return dated within last 12 months. A current homeowner’s or renters insurance policy will also provide proof of residency.
Individuals born in Tennessee not having access to an original birth certificate may apply for a duplicate at the Hamilton County Vital Records Department, 921 East Third Street, 37403. Birth certificate information may be obtained by calling (423) 209-8025.
Mr. Knowles said, “Congress in 2005 mandated The REAL ID Act for establishing minimum security, authentication and issuance standards for State driver’s license and identification cards. The law is designed to make airline transportation safer, reduce identity theft, identify fraud and crimes involving driver’s license, and support nationwide efforts to prevent terrorism.
Non-compliant driver’s license and identification cards issued on and after July 1, 2019, will display the phrase, “NOT FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION.”