In the near future, I will be reintroducing HB 1243 (2023-2024 Legislative Session) which passed unanimously in the House of Representatives in the 2023-2024 Legislative Session. This legislation would codify current PennDOT policy on the REAL ID application process for the Commonwealth’s residents to accept multiple document options when verifying an individual’s Social Security number (SSN).

As background, the REAL ID Act of 2005 establishes minimum security standards for the issuance of state driver licenses and photo IDs. This federal law, including its corresponding regulations, severely limits the ability of states to make changes to their respective REAL ID application processes.

Current PennDOT policy, as of June7, 2023, allows the following products to be used for proof of Social Security Number for REAL ID products.

• Social Security Card
• W-2 forms;
• SSA 1099 Form;
• A Non-SSA 1099 Form; or a
• Paystubs (that fulfills the requirements of the REAL ID Act of 2005

The Department of Homeland Security intends to enforce REAL ID beginning on May 7, 2025, so it is imperative that PennDOT’s REAL ID application process does not continue to place unnecessary burdens on Commonwealth residents. To this end, my legislation will simply codify what PennDOT has made policy regarding documentation permitted for REAL ID products.

I hope you will join me in cosponsoring this legislation that will bring PennDOT’s REAL ID process in line with the other 49 states.