Alternate Montana license can be used for Real ID, but it will cost you extra

Gov. Steve Bullock has signed a bill giving Montanans the option to buy a state driver’s license or identification card that can be used to board flights and access federal facilities.

The Independent Record reported on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 that Bullock, after signing the bill into law, will ask the Department of Homeland Security for a pair of extensions to comply with the 2005 Federal Real ID Act. The 2005 act is intended to improve national security and prevent identity theft.

A governor’s office spokesperson says the request will be made in the next couple of weeks.

State officials refused to comply with the Real ID Act in the past, expressing concern that it jeopardizes the security of the people of Montana by creating a national database of documents.

Mineral County Clerk of District Court, Kathleen Brown, wanted to remind people about the new rules since people are making travel plans for the summer and holidays. She said that if residents want to obtain a passport they can go to Costco to get their photo taken because the rules for the photos are very stringent and they are in compliance. Passport applications are available in their office which is located in the Court House in Superior. Applicants will also need a birth certificate and driver’s license. It takes six to eight weeks to process a passport Brown said.