FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- A standard Washington State Driver License or ID Card will no longer be accepted for access to Fairchild Air Force Base starting August 15 due to their noncompliance with the Real ID Act of 2005.
In 2005, the House of Representatives passed a bill into law called the Real ID Act. Although the law went into effect in 2005, implementing its requirements for Fairchild access had been delayed until this year.
“We anticipate there will be some confusion and frustration as we begin implementing this Federal law,” said Maj. Kevin McMahon, 92nd Security Forces Squadron commander. “We are working with community partners, vendors, contractors, and visitors to Fairchild to ensure they still have the access to the installation we all need. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we transition.”
The Washington State Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and IDs are Real ID Act compliant and can be used to prove identity; however, enhanced driver’s license and ID holders must continue to obtain passes from the visitor’s center before accessing base.
People without a Washington State Enhanced Driver’s License or ID must provide another form of ID to obtain a base pass such as a United States Passport, U.S. Passport Card, a permanent resident card or Alien Registration Receipt Card (INS Form I-551), employment authorization document that contains a photograph (INS Form I-776) or a driver’s license issued by a state that is Real ID compliant.
“This law was written to improve the overall safety and security of those who live, work and depend on the services Fairchild provides,” McMahon said. “Secure identification documents are an important aspect to providing security in an evolving environment.”
For more information about the Real ID Act, visit the Department of Homeland Security Website at www.DHS.gov or contact the 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs office at (509) 247-5705.