LANSING – Though officials with the Michigan Department of State are still reviewing the new rules unveiled Friday for implementing the federal REAL ID act, they said they were encouraged by initial descriptions that the rules would be easier to implement than prior proposals.
The rules outline the security measures states must include in new driver’s licenses and state identification cards, but they also give states another five years to fully implement the requirements. Prior rules had required the more secure licenses be in place later this year.
Among the provisions that have been highlighted is the requirement that applicants be photographed at the beginning of the application process, with that photo attached to a denial of a license as well as being printed on licenses granted. The rules, and the act, would also develop a system that would allow states to check with each other on the licensure status of the applicant in other states.
“It is a marked improvement from their original rules,” said State spokesperson Kelly Chesney. “It’s obvious they’ve been listening to states.”
Chesney said the new rules also appear to put Michigan in good stead with changes the department has been making in the licensing process.
“We’re well on our way to being materially compliant (with the act),” she said. “There are a number of things that they’re going to require that we’re already building into the modernization of our technology.”
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