The REAL ID Act is a federal law that bars federal agencies from accepting a non-REAL ID compliant driver's license or identification card for an "official purpose," which includes accessing a Federal facility or boarding an airplane. Therefore, individuals must obtain a driver's license or identification card that complies with the Act's requirements and the regulations from DHS to engage in any of these activities.
Regulations issued by the Department of Homeland Security in January 2008 will have a large impact on homeless persons, who often lack photo ID or indeed any identification documents. This NLCHP fact sheet reviews the new regulations and what homeless persons, advocates, and service providers should know about REAL ID.
Obtaining Identification
Without a photo ID, homeless persons often find that they cannot successfully move out of homelessness and toward self-sufficiency. They cannot get a job or access basic social services. They can be denied access to clothing closets, shelters, food pantries, and certain public benefits, all of which help move people out of poverty towards self-sufficiency.
Some states have implemented procedures to help homeless people obtain identification. Further, some federal programs have procedures that help homeless persons access benefits without identification. The examples in this NLCHP fact sheet can serve as models for states attempting to find ways to help homeless persons overcome identification barriers.
This page was created by Administrator on Sep 28, 2007 3:56 PM
The following people have contributed to the content on this page: Administrator, Tulin Ozdeger
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