August 20, 2018

QUESTIONS ANSWERED ON FACEBOOK LIVE…

Big changes are heading Kentucky’s way next year when it comes to identification needed to fly domestically.

A new “voluntary travel ID” is expected to roll out in early 2019. That ID will allow residents to fly domestically, access restricted federal facilities like power plants and military bases and drive in the state. Residents who don’t want the new ID will get a new standard credential.

So, you asked for your questions on Facebook Live. We tried our best to answer and have since circled back with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to track down the information on Kentucky IDs you needed.

Here’s what we’ve got:

What are the prices of Kentucky’s new IDs?

Here are the new licenses and their corresponding prices:

New standard driver’s license, $43
New standard personal ID card, $23
New standard motorcycle license, $43
Voluntary Travel ID driver’s license, $48
Voluntary Travel ID personal ID, $28
Voluntary Travel ID motorcycle license, $48

When will they start to be available?

The new voluntary travel IDs will roll out beginning in January 2019.

The changes are part of a state initiative called Confident Kentucky that will upgrade all current licenses (driver’s licenses, permits and personal IDs) as well as introduce the travel ID.

A current license is valid at airports until October 2020 when Kentucky and all other states must be in compliance with 2005’s Real ID Act — a post-9/11 security measure.

Not sure which ID to get? We’ll help you decide.

Why wouldn’t everyone just get the voluntary travel ID?

For starters, there’s a price difference.

If someone already has an ID that’s acceptable for flying domestically or accessing federally restricted areas (we’ve listed these IDs in the question below), then that might be their preference.

Or, if someone doesn’t plan to fly within the U.S. or visit a military base after October 2020, then they might not want a new license.

“Giving Kentuckians the choice allows each person to make a decision that fits their needs and budget,” Naitore Djigbenou, a spokeswoman for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, wrote in an email.

Can I fly domestically with just a passport? What about with a passport card?

Yes, a passport will work for domestic flights.

A U.S. passport card is also valid identification for boarding a flight within the United States, according to the Transportation Security Administration.

Other forms of identification they allow for domestic travel include:

U.S. Department of Defense ID
Permanent resident card
Border crossing card
DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license
Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
For more specific questions, visit the TSA’s website.

What if my license hasn’t expired?

Kentuckians can continue to use their current license to drive, vote and make age-restricted purchases until it expires.

But starting in October 2020, those IDs can’t be used as the sole form of identification to board a flight. That’s where the voluntary ID cards (or passports) come in.

What will the new IDs look like?

More information on appearance is coming soon, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said.

They haven’t given many clues.

“Both the standard license and voluntary travel ID will have a new, modern look,” Djigbenou said Wednesday.

What do I need to bring with me to get a new ID?

First-time applicants: If you’re requesting a new standard driver’s license, you must present one proof of identity (i.e., a birth certificate, passport or permanent resident card), proof of social security (i.e., social security card) and one proof of residency (i.e., a utility bill or lease). A birth certificate must always serve as the proof of identity for applicants under 18.

To renew a standard license or personal ID: Applicants only need to surrender their current credential. Personal identification cards require the same verification documents as a license. Non-U.S. citizens may apply for any standard credential.

To get a voluntary travel ID: A voluntary travel ID has the same requirements as first-time applicants, except applicants must provide two documents showing proof of residency instead of one.

Where do I go to get a new ID?

Residents will continue to visit Circuit Court Clerk’s offices to apply for a new standard credential (driver’s license, permit, personal ID) or voluntary travel ID. The ID will then be mailed to you within five to 10 business days.

After I get the new ID, how long is it valid?

Previously, Kentucky drivers had to renew their license every four years, unless they moved addresses. All the new IDs — licenses, permits, ID cards and travel IDs — are valid for eight years.

What if I fly a lot? Which ID should I get?

You should obtain the voluntary travel ID, unless you have a passport and prefer to use that every time you fly domestically.

What if I just want to drive and don’t care to fly?

The new standard credential ID will work for you. You can turn in your old license for a new one when they become available.

By Darcy Costello
Louisville Courier Journal