BREMERTON, Wash. — Starting Monday, people who want to visit local naval bases will need more than just a driver’s license, because Washington State still hasn't upgraded its identification to meet federal standards.
The requirement is a reversal from what the Navy said last week.
Last week, Navy officials said there weren't any changes at Naval Base Kitsap and Naval Station Everett.
But the news came Sunday, that unless one already has an enhanced driver's license, they won’t be able to get through security on local Navy bases without additional forms of identification.
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A lot of the people driving on to the bases aren't impacted, since they have military IDs. But a lot of civilians who have business on base might be caught off guard.
The issue is about the Department of Homeland Security's REAL ID Act, which is an effort to increase security on military bases and federal installations.
The law requires IDs to have better security features.
Washington IDs, and those from half the other states, don't comply with the new standards.
But almost all the other states have gotten extensions, because they're working toward compliance.
Washington and four other states are not. As a result, the Navy is rejecting Washington IDs starting Monday.
Those who need to visit a local Navy base should call first to see what other forms of identification are needed, such as a passport or social security card.
Cox Media Group
