Allegan, Mich. — With the May 7 deadline fast approaching, Michigan residents are scrambling to obtain a Real ID in order to continue using their driver’s licenses for air travel and to enter certain federal buildings.
County clerks across West Michigan, including Allegan County, have reported a significant uptick in requests for vital records, as residents rush to secure the necessary documents to upgrade their licenses. Bob Genetski, Allegan County Clerk, noted that requests for documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees have increased by about 20% in recent weeks.
“May 7th is coming up soon,” Genetski said. “We’re seeing a big uptick of people coming into the county clerk’s office to get a copy of their birth certificates or their marriage licenses or even divorce decrees so they can present those to the Secretary of State.”
A Real ID, which features a star on the top right corner of the license, will be required for domestic air travel and to enter certain federal buildings starting May 7. For individuals who don’t already have a star on their current ID, they will need to visit the Michigan Secretary of State’s office with a variety of documents in hand, including a social security card, a certified birth certificate, and proof of Michigan residency. Some residents may also need additional documentation, especially if their name has changed due to marriage or divorce.
“If your name has changed, you need to get that additional document,” Genetski said. “So, if you’ve been married three or four times, you need each one of those marriage licenses and the divorce decrees in order to fulfill that requirement for the Real ID.”
While the enforcement details for May 7 remain unclear, Genetski emphasized the potential consequences of not obtaining a Real ID. Without one, travelers may experience delays or even be prevented from boarding flights. Those without a Real ID will still be able to fly if they possess a valid U.S. passport.
This deadline, originally set for a few years ago, has caused some confusion. However, with time running out, it seems the public is starting to act on the issue. Genetski shared that clerks across the state are seeing an increasing number of individuals seeking help.
“People who have that on their mind are definitely making the effort to get the documents they need,” he said.
It’s important to note that Michigan’s Enhanced Licenses, which are compliant with the Real ID law, can be used for travel to certain countries, such as Canada, by land or sea.
For more information on how to obtain a Real ID or to review the necessary documents, residents are encouraged to visit the Michigan Secretary of State’s website.
