New requirements await BMV customers
Comet staff report

Legislation that went into effect July 1 helps prepare the state for compliance with the federal Real ID Act.

The legislation, S.B. 463, defines what is required on the face of a driver license or identification card.

In addition to existing requirements, when Hoosiers visit license branches to obtain or renew a driver license, driver permit or ID card, they must provide the following:

+Full legal name, including middle name. Nicknames are no longer allowed.

+Legal residential address. Post office boxes will not be accepted.

+Verification of social security number.

+For those without a social security number, a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration and documentation of identity and legal status in the U.S. must be provided. Previously, ID cards did not require social security numbers.

+Valid documentation of an individual's legal status in the U.S., even if the individual has a valid social security number.

+Additionally, customers must surrender a driver license or ID card if holding both credentials, as individuals are no longer allowed to hold both concurrently. Customers only need to relinquish one credential at the time of renewal or seeking a new credential while holding the other.

The new law requires an individual who changes their name or address to make application for an amended license or permit to correct the information within 30 days of the change.

For Hoosiers seeking a Commercial Driver License (CDL), the 2007-08 CDL manual is now available online at www.in.gov/dor/mcs or from a customer service representative at any Indiana license branch.