Real ID Act Postponed by Department of Homeland Security

With most states unable to meet the Dec. 31 deadline that would require them to issue enhanced drivers' licenses through the Real ID Act, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) pushed back the deadline in an announcement Friday, Dec. 18, while still remaining committed to the legislation.

Forty-six of the 56 states and territories told the DHS they can't meet the deadline, announced Deputy Press Secretary Matt Chandler.

"In order to ensure that the millions of Americans traveling this holiday season are not disrupted, DHS is extending the Dec. 31 Real ID material compliance deadline. The May 10, 2011, deadline for full compliance remains in effect, and the department will continue to work closely with states to meet this deadline," Chandler said in a statement.

Go to Government Technology's Web site to learn more about the Real ID act deadline.