I’d like to take a moment to thank our local tag agent, Eric Barker, as well as his team, for their service to the Kingfisher community, especially during these challenging times.

There’s no doubt that there’s been problems recently with the state transferring to a REAL ID system, which has caused a host of issues and backlogs. Simply put, the problems they’ve been dealing with aren’t of their making. Change is difficult, but our tag agents have taken it in stride and done their best with the circumstances given.

What we’ve dealt with over the last few months has created the perfect storm health precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic have limited the number of people allowed in an agency and software issues and the lengthier process to become REAL ID compliant have only added to the struggle. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

The Department of Public Safety is working to enhance digital platforms to reduce some of the backlog for those just needing to do a simple renewal of a standard driver license. You can now renew or replace your license online and print out a paper copy while a hard copy is created and mailed to you. You can do these tasks, as well as schedule an appointment to renew your license in person or get a REAL ID at www.oklahoma.gov/dps/services.

You may be asking yourself — what is the difference between a standard driver license and a REAL ID?

REAL ID is a coordinated national effort between the federal government and states to improve the reliability and accuracy of state-issued identification documents, with the intent of protecting Americans by reducing the ability for terrorists to obtain fake IDs.

REAL ID was actually passed by the federal government in 2005 in response to the terrorist attacks of 9/11, but our state asked for a series of extensions to comply and is just now beginning to implement the system.

If you have intentions of flying or entering federal facilities where identification is required, you’ll need either a REAL ID or a passport by Oct. 1 of this year.

So, if it’s your intention to get a REAL ID, please make sure you’re visiting a tag agency with the capabilities to get you one. The Kingfisher Tag Agency is REAL ID compliant and they can be reached at 405-375-3761 if you’d like to make an appointment.

You’ll also need to bring proof of identity, like a passport or birth certificate, your social security card or W-2 tax form, and two proofs of residency.

Once again, our tag agents all deserve a pat on the back for the work they’ve done over the last year to keep us safe while working through the pandemic. There’s been some ups and downs, but their dedication to service to our communities should not go unnoticed.

Thank you for allowing me to be your voice at our state Capitol. If there’s anything I can do to help you, please reach out. You can contact me by email at Darcy.Jech@oksenate.gov or by phone at 405-521-5545.