Time is running out to get a REAL ID before the May 7 deadline, when it will be required to enter certain federal buildings or board flights.
Starting March 22, Tennessee residents can schedule Saturday appointments at select driver service centers to get their REAL ID.
Johnson City is one of the locations offering this service.
Charmaine McNeily, deputy director of communications at the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security, said the additional Saturday hours aim to reduce the load on busy urban centers.
“We’ve seen an increase in demand as the REAL ID deadline approaches,” McNeily said. “To help manage this, we’ve added Saturday hours at 14 driver service centers across the state.”
REAL ID differs from a regular driver’s license because it meets higher federal security standards.
Without a REAL ID, travelers will need another form of federal ID to enter certain federal facilities or pass through airport security.
Lisa Farbstein, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, encouraged people to get their REAL ID soon.
“You never know when you might need to fly for a funeral, a wedding, or to meet a new grandchild,” Farbstein said. “It’s better to have a REAL ID or another valid federal ID just in case.”
To get a REAL ID in Tennessee, residents must provide proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of their Social Security Number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency (such as a utility bill, paycheck, or insurance policy).
McNeily noted that a REAL ID isn’t required for everyday activities.
“Your current license is still valid for driving, voting, buying alcohol, and similar activities,” McNeily said.
She also reminded residents to bring proof of any name change, such as a marriage license, court order, or divorce decree.
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