Webster introduces bill to waive marriage license fee for those applying for Real ID

HARRISBURG, Feb. 5 – As the deadline for Real ID enforcement in Pennsylvania draws nearer, state Rep. Joe Webster has introduced legislation that would waive the fee for one of the documents required in the process.

“One of the documents required to obtain a Real ID is proof of any legal name changes. Most frequently, that requirement applies to married women who must provide a copy of their marriage license,” Webster said. “The cost of obtaining a copy of a marriage license varies from county to county, and sometimes it can be quite significant.”

Webster’s legislation would set a uniform fee limit throughout the state for marriage license copies, and it would waive the fee for individuals who request a copy of their marriage license for the purpose of obtaining state-issued ID such as the Real ID.

“I want to make sure we are working to reduce the burden for applicants who are preparing for Real ID enforcement to begin in October,” said Webster, D-Montgomery. “I’m grateful that a community member brought this disparity to my attention. My bill would make the cost of obtaining a Real ID more equitable and make the process a little easier for many Pennsylvania residents.”

Starting Oct. 1, a Real ID-compliant license or photo ID card, or another form of federally acceptable identification such as a valid passport or military ID, will be necessary to board a domestic flight or enter secure federal facilities. More information is available at www.penndot.gov/realid.