When it comes to identification, there are several types that a person can choose from. However, two that often create confusion are Vermont REAL ID and Vermont Enhanced ID. While they may seem similar, each serves a different purpose, and knowing the difference between the two can save you a lot of time and hassle.
Vermont REAL ID is a type of identification card that complies with federal regulations established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. This Act requires all states to issue driver’s licenses and other identification cards that meet certain security and identity verification standards. A REAL ID is primarily used for domestic travel, entering federal facilities such as courthouses and military bases, and accessing certain federal benefits, like Social Security. A REAL ID card can also be used as a standard ID for everyday use, such as buying alcohol or tobacco.
On the other hand, Vermont Enhanced ID is a type of identification that not only meets the REAL ID Act standards but also contains a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip. This small chip stores personal data that can be scanned at border crossings to verify your identity and citizenship. This makes it an excellent option for those who travel frequently between the US and Canada and do not want to carry a passport. An enhanced ID can also be used as a standard ID for everyday use.
It’s essential to note that while REAL ID and Enhanced ID provide different benefits, they both require the same application process and documentation. Applicants will need to present proof of identity, legal presence, social security number, and proof of residency to get either type of ID. In addition, both types of ID have a higher cost than a standard driver’s license.
In summary, Vermont REAL ID and Vermont Enhanced ID serve different purposes. A REAL ID is primarily used for domestic travel, accessing federal facilities and benefits, and everyday use as a standard ID. An Enhanced ID is ideal for frequent US-Canada border crossings and can also be used as a standard ID. Regardless of which one you choose, both types require a thorough application process and documentation.
Quick navigation
What types of identification are accepted in Vermont, and how does a standard Vermont ID differ from a Vermont Enhanced license?
In Vermont, there are several types of identification accepted for various purposes. The standard Vermont driver’s license is one of the most common forms of ID used to verify identity and age. It is issued to residents who are at least 16 years old and is generally used for driving purposes. It displays basic information such as the person’s name, photo, residential address, height, and eye color. This type of ID is also used for identification purposes when purchasing alcohol, tobacco, and other age-restricted products.
On the other hand, a Vermont Enhanced license is a more advanced form of identification that can also be used for crossing international borders. It contains an embedded radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that stores personal information, including biometric data such as fingerprints. The Enhanced license is designed to comply with the requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), which requires a higher level of security for travelers crossing international borders. This type of license is also used when applying for certain federal benefits and services, such as Social Security or veterans’ benefits.
In conclusion, while the standard Vermont driver’s license is suitable for everyday use, the Vermont Enhanced license offers additional features that are required for certain purposes such as international travel or accessing federal services. It is important to note that the Enhanced license comes at an extra cost and requires additional documentation and verification of identity to obtain.
How does the application process for a Vermont Enhanced ID compare to that of a regular Vermont driver’s license?
When it comes to obtaining a Vermont Enhanced ID, the application process differs slightly from that of a regular Vermont driver’s license. To apply for an Enhanced ID, individuals must provide additional documentation to prove their identity and citizenship status. This includes birth certificates, social security cards, and proof of residency. In contrast, a regular driver’s license application may only require a valid form of identification such as a passport or state-issued ID.
Another key difference between the application processes is that the Enhanced ID requires an in-person visit to a DMV branch office. This is because the photo and fingerprinting process is necessary to obtain the enhanced features of the ID, such as the ability to cross the US-Canada border. However, certain circumstances such as a disability or medical condition may allow for alternative means of obtaining an Enhanced ID or exemption from the fingerprinting process.
Overall, the process of obtaining an Enhanced ID may take longer than that of a regular driver’s license due to the additional documentation and requirements. However, the benefits of having an Enhanced ID can be invaluable for those who frequently travel between the US and Canada or require a more secure form of identification for certain purposes.
What additional security features are present in a Vermont Enhanced ID that are not included in a standard ID?
A Vermont Enhanced ID (EID) is a type of government-issued identification that has been designed to be more secure and tamper-proof than a standard ID. Unlike a standard ID, which can be used for basic identification purposes, an EID is primarily used for border crossing and international travel. One of the most significant differences between an EID and a standard ID is the number of advanced security features that are present in an EID, which not only make it much harder to counterfeit but also it help to prevent identity theft.
One of the most notable additional security features found on a Vermont EID is the RFID chip that is embedded in the card. This chip contains all the personal information of the cardholder and can be easily scanned by border authorities or immigration officials when crossing international borders. Additionally, the EID includes several other security features such as a color-shifting image, microprinting, a hologram foil stamp and other advanced printing techniques that make it significantly harder to counterfeit than a standard ID.
Moreover, an EID includes digital encryption technology which makes it more secure than traditional ID cards. It uses a 128-bit SSL encryption technology that ensures secure data communication between the card and any system that reads it. This feature provides additional security measures to prevent identity theft and fraud. As a result, individuals with Vermont EIDs can travel more confidently and securely knowing that their identification is less likely to be tampered with or stolen. In summary, the advanced security features present on Vermont EIDs provide greater protection against identity theft and counterfeiting, making this type of ID a much more secure form of identification.
Are there any differences in the uses or restrictions of a Vermont Enhanced ID compared to a standard ID for activities such as border crossing or air travel?
The Vermont Enhanced ID is a type of identification that is issued by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This type of ID is designed for individuals who frequently travel between the United States and Canada. It is equipped with RFID technology that allows for quick and easy cross-border identification. The Vermont Enhanced ID is accepted as a valid form of identification for land and sea travel between the US and Canada, but it is not accepted for air travel.
On the other hand, a standard VT ID card is accepted as a form of identification for air travel both domestically and internationally. However, for international air travel, a US passport is required. A standard ID card may also be used for activities such as entering federal buildings, voting, or purchasing alcohol.
It’s important to note that there are some restrictions on the use of Enhanced ID. For example, it cannot be used to enter Mexico or any other country outside of the US and Canada. Additionally, although the Enhanced ID does not expire, it is only valid for use for the length of time that an individual is legally allowed to remain in the US.
How does the cost of a Vermont Enhanced ID compare to a standard ID, and is the added expense worth the increased functionality?
The cost of a Vermont Enhanced ID is higher than a standard ID due to the added functionality it provides. As of 2021, the cost of a Vermont Enhanced Driver’s License is $58 for a first-time applicant and $30 for a renewal, while the standard driver’s license costs $32 for a first-time applicant and $20 for a renewal. Although the cost difference may seem substantial, it’s worth noting that the Enhanced ID allows for easier travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean. Additionally, the enhanced ID can be used as a border-crossing document when traveling by land or sea, which can save you money on passport fees if you’re planning on traveling to any of these areas.
Whether the added expense is worth it depends on your specific needs and travel plans. If you regularly travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, or the Caribbean, the added functionality of an enhanced ID may make the extra expense worth it. Additionally, if you frequently travel by land or sea to any of these places, the enhanced ID can be a cost-effective alternative to a passport. On the other hand, if you don’t have plans to travel to these areas anytime soon, or are content with using your passport for border crossings, the standard ID may be a more affordable option.