Homeland Security Grants Real ID Extension

By Catherine M. Welch

Wilmington, NC – After an exchange of letters, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff has granted South Carolina an extension to comply with new driver's license standards.

The Real ID Act sets a national security standard for driver's licenses and identification cards.

South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford wrote Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff Monday to inform him that South Carolina's current licensing system meets more than 90% of the Act's requirements.

And Chertoff wrote back the same day letting Sanford know that South Carolina has received an extension, although he respectfully disagrees with some of Sanford's arguments.

South Carolina has until May 11th to upgrade its drivers license or citizens will need more than their license to board planes.

Last June Sanford signed legislation rejecting the Real ID Act, calling it an unfunded mandate.

Click here to read Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff's letter to South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford.

Click here to read Sanford's letter to The Department of Homeland Security.

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