Many States require license applicants to show a birth certificate, but they will also accept alternative proof of identity. Proof of citizenship has never been a requirement to attain an ID card in the US until the Real ID Act was passed May 11th, 2005.

Local governments and US residents have been urged to comply with increased demand for federalized forms of identity since the passage of the Real ID Act, May 11, 2005. Real ID was recently defunded by DHS and its regulations have been banned by half the States in the nation. Citizens still complain of hassles at the DMV and identity requirements requirements for travel. Many adversities and changes to American life have been influenced by the law.

States continue to negotiate compliance with the law by January, 2013.