Log in

OPINION

Dyer: Don’t put off getting required Arizona Travel ID

Federally imposed deadline of Oct. 1, 2020 getting closer

Posted

Getting the new required federally-compliant Travel ID driver’s license recently took me less than 10 minutes at a third-party Motor Vehicle Division office.

As it will be required to pass through airport security for domestic travel, it’s been on my mind for sometime and that federally-imposed deadline of Oct. 1, 2020, just keeps getting closer.

The Arizona Department of Transportation has been saying for months that the Travel ID can be applied for at all MVD locations and at authorized third-party providers offering license and ID services.

In order to get a license or ID, you need to bring three forms of documentation, ADOT says, including:

  • proof of ID such as a birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport;
  • proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card; and
  •  two documents proving Arizona residency, such as a utility bill or rental statement.

The key to shortening your time at the office is to come prepared. I gathered up all required documents, filled out an online form and printed off a sheet before driving to the third-party MVD office. I tore off a number inside near the front door, had my photo snapped, waited until my number was called, presented the required paperwork, waited for it to be copied, paid the $25 Travel ID fee and an additional charge for using the third-party business, was told that it was completed and walked out the door.

The Travel ID arrived by mail in about a week.

If you would prefer to go to an MVD office, you can make an appointment at servicearizona.com.

For a list of acceptable documents and general information about the requirements for the Travel ID, go to azdot.gov/travelid.

There is a gold star embedded in the card to show that the cardholder has provided added proof of identification to ensure it meets strict federal requirements, according to the website.

***

We have an e-mail address for news and opinions for the newspapers. Please send your content to aznews@newszap.com.

Richard Dyer
Editor
Apache Junction/Gold Canyon Independent
Queen Creek Independent

opinion