Government Gives Itself Two More Years to Check IDs
Published Date: 1/14/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies can roll out new ID card rules in steps instead of all at once, making it easier to keep things secure and smooth. Agencies must share their plans with the public and finish full enforcement by May 5, 2027. This phased approach helps everyone adjust without sudden changes or big costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Phased REAL ID Enforcement Window
Federal agencies must begin REAL ID card-based enforcement on May 7, 2025, but may implement enforcement in phases for up to 2 years. Any phased plan must reach full enforcement no later than May 5, 2027.
Warnings and Progressive Enforcement Allowed
During a phased enforcement period, agencies may use warning notices or progressive measures (for example, a three-strikes system) instead of immediately denying individuals who present noncompliant DL/IDs for official purposes.
Costs, Delayed Benefits, and Administrative Burdens
DHS estimates the rule’s 2-year cost to Federal entities at $1.73 million (undiscounted), with DHS costs of $0.033 million and other Federal agencies $1.70 million; the rule also notes individuals may incur costs to learn about phased plans and to obtain REAL ID-compliant DL/IDs, and that full security benefits are delayed until full enforcement.
Public Notice Requirement for Agency Plans
Agencies that coordinate a phased enforcement plan with DHS must post their plan on their web page, and DHS will publish a list of agencies with coordinated phased plans on the DHS REAL ID web page (https://www.dhs.gov/real-id).
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