January 23, 2008
I received this email from the survival Center. The real ID is close at hand. They say right now it is voluntary, but the Social Security ID was also voluntary at one time. By the way, when the SSI first came out, it was said that it would never be and should not be used as an ID. Now you can't do anything without using your SSI.
See this message.
2. Enhanced Drivers License/ID now available
Washington has made headlines by releasing the first ever Enhanced Driver License or ID card (EDL/ID) with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip. Unlike standard driver's licenses, this cutting edge form of identification is an acceptable alternative to a passport for re-entry into the U.S. at land and sea border crossings between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
More than anything, Governor Gregoire sees the EDL/ID as an asset to trade and tourism between Washington and its closest Canadian neighbor. "Washington and B.C. have a long history of friendship and our shared border must permit the trade and tourism that supports our shared economy," said the Governor.
"We looked at the restrictions of the federal passport requirements and we came up with a solution that is secure, more affordable and allows more trade and tourism." Since border restrictions tightened over the first of the year, thousands of people will surely opt for the EDL/ID, rather than paying more and waiting longer for a traditional passport.
At this time, traditional forms of identification are still available and the EDL/ID program is voluntary. For more information, please see
http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/edlget.html
TJ Chambers