The laws for acquiring driver’s licenses are governed by license laws, which are continually subject to change. These laws are crucial for ensuring that individuals have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly. However, as road conditions, safety concerns, and transportation technologies evolve, so too do the rules surrounding driver’s licenses. Recently, some major changes are coming to license laws in the state of New York regarding the REAL ID seal.
Why do license laws change?
Many pieces of legislation rarely are ever subject to change. These types of legislation usually involve bills which protect our human rights, which are generally only ever changed in response to changing societal norms. However, driving laws are always subject to changes, sometimes with multiple amendments made in a year. This is partly because driving laws are a state issue and not a federal one.
Changes can also occur in response to societal shifts, such as a greater focus on environmental concerns, prompting more stringent regulations on emissions or the adoption of electric vehicles. Because of these ongoing adjustments, legislation must constantly be updated in order to accommodate for new technology which is on the road.
It is for this reason that drivers must always ensure that they stay informed about any alterations to the laws that may affect their ability to obtain or renew their licenses. Not being aware of the latest changes can result in fines, delays, or even suspension of driving privileges. Understanding the ever-evolving nature of driver’s license laws is essential for every driver to stay compliant and ensure their continued access to the roads.
Major changes coming to the state of New York
The Department of Motor Vehicles of New York State has recently announced some big changes New Yorker citizens can expect to be coming their way with regards to their driver’s licenses. New York is introducing the REAL ID seal, which all citizens must have on their state-issued hard copy identification cards in order to board domestic flights as well as access specific federal facilities.
“The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government ‘set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.’ The Act established minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards” according to the Department of Homeland Security
The deadline to receive the seal was extended by two years form May 2023 to May 7 2025. With the deadline fast approaching, you must ensure that you get your REAL ID seal as soon as possible. The Department of Motor Vehicles has extended their working hours in order to accommodate New York citizens who need to still receive their REAL ID.
Digital driver’s licenses to be expected nation wide
One major change which is being seen implemented by multiple states regarding driver’s licenses is digital identification systems. In a world which is becoming increasingly digitalized, it was only a matter of time before this would extend to identity documents. Currently, about 75% of states across the nation have implemented, or are in the process of implementing a digital ID system.
Idaho is one of the most recent states to begin digitizing their ID systems, waiting on the Idaho senate to approve the bill. It is important to bear in mind, however, that these digital IDs do not replace your state-issued hard copy one. They are only to be used in tandem with the hard copy, and many federal agencies will still require you to present your hardcopy on request. Knowing this, always ensure that you carry your hardcopy ID with you wherever you go at all times, especially when driving.
