On October 1, 2020 a federal law will require people to have a "Real ID" or passport type document to fly domestically. The Nevada DMV held meetings on Wednesday to teach Northern Nevada residents about the changes. One of those meetings is being held at the DMV office on Galletti Way. It takes 7 to 10 days to get your Real ID, once you apply for it.

Patty Smalley applied for a Real ID driver's license on Wednesday. “I’m getting my Real ID and this is my third trip to the DMV,” said Smalley. A 2005 law goes into effect in October requiring a Real ID driver's license, ID card, or passport-type identification to fly domestically.

Patty Smalley didn't realize that details from her past would come up in the process. “I didn't know I needed all my marriage licenses. Or I would have only gotten married once. Just kidding,” said Smalley.

There are multiple requirements to get a Real ID. “We would take identity documents consisting of a Real ID from another state, a passport, or a birth certificate. In addition to that we need a Social Security document. That could be a Social Security card, a W-2 or 1099, or a pay stub with the Social Security number and the full name. We would also require two residency documents,” said Serena Gallegos from the Nevada DMV. “Residential documents have to be within the last 60 days. If you bring your water bill, make sure it’s recent,” said Smalley.

The DMV website getrealnevada.com lists the requirements. “If you've been married more than once, make sure you have both of your marriage licenses from your precise counties that you were married in,” said Smalley.

The Nevada DMV held public meetings on Wednesday to explain the process and answer questions. Getting a Real ID is considered voluntary, but if you don't get one it could restrict your travel. “So the Real ID will have a star in the upper left hand corner of the driver's license. If you opt not to get the Real ID it will have the words ‘not for official federal use’ on it,” said Gallegos. “The hassle at the airport, it’s already a big enough hassle, why make it worse,” said Smalley.

It's recommended that you make an appointment with the DMV online, before you go in to get your Real ID identification card or driver’s license.