N.J. toughens rules to get or renew a driver's license

New Jerseyans will face tougher requirements to obtain or renew driver's licenses starting next month.

Because of changes in federal law after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the state is getting stricter about documentation it will accept to prove drivers' identity and legal residence.

Nine states, including Delaware, now issue licenses that comply with the federal standards.

In New Jersey, the requirements will take effect May 7, when the state starts to issue federally compliant licenses marked with a distinctive gold star in the top right corner.

Older drivers - those born before Dec. 1, 1964 - can avoid the tougher scrutiny by renewing their noncompliant licenses by mail until November 2013. After that, they will be subject to the new rules when applying for or renewing a license.

Raymond Martinez, chairman of the state Motor Vehicle Commission, said the delayed requirement for older motorists was designed to make life easier - for commission workers.

"We're trying to help customer flow by having a two-tier system," he said. "It's so we don't get killed with extremely long lines in our offices."

The compliant licenses will be good for eight years, twice as long as the current licenses, but they will cost $48, twice as much.

Younger drivers have less time to obtain compliant licenses because the federal Real ID law sets different deadlines.

As of Dec. 1, 2014, those younger than 50 must show a compliant ID to board a plane or enter a federal building, according to the law. Those born before Dec. 1, 1964, have until Dec. 1, 2017, to obtain a compliant ID.

To get a compliant license or ID at a Motor Vehicle Commission office after May 5, applicants must have proof of identity, principal residence, and legal presence in the country, and provide a Social Security number.

As proof of identity, New Jersey will accept a valid U.S. passport or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate with an official seal, or a certificate of naturalization or citizenship.

Applicants must prove their Social Security numbers by presenting a valid Social Security card, current W-2 form or Form 1099, or a pay stub bearing name and number.

Applicants must prove their principal residence by presenting two documents showing name and address, such as utility or credit card bills issued within the last 90 days, bank statements from the last 60 days, property-tax statements from the last year, or first-class mail from a government agency received in the last six months.

Details about the so-called TRU-ID program in New Jersey are available by calling 888-486-3339 or 609-292-6500, or by visiting the website www.njmvc.gov.