Dear John, In recent months, VoteRiders has been hearing one query from more and more voters: Do I need a REAL ID to vote? As if voter ID weren’t confusing enough, along comes a new identity law to navigate! REAL ID adds another Fall 2020 deadline, another list of qualifying documents, and the prospect of chasing vital records through layers of bureaucracy. As REAL ID rolls out nationally, it is clear that the process of renewing or obtaining a driver's license or state-issued ID is becoming more challenging (and costly in the 11 states issuing only REAL IDs) for ALL residents – including those who need one to vote. Our on-the-ground experience plus studies prove that millions of Americans do not have the documents required for REAL ID readily available, nor do they know how to seek these documents from government and other agencies. What's more, many cannot afford the time and money involved. VoteRiders is tracking REAL ID's rollout across the country and how it intersects with voter ID. Help us in this effort! We’d really appreciate hearing about your experience obtaining REAL ID-compliant identification – please share your story with us! Or call or text our Voter ID Helpline: 844-338-8743. With our gratitude, Kathleen Unger and the VoteRiders Team | |
Our growing suite of REAL ID resources: | |