Heritage Foundation Leadership for America

Last month, the Department of Homeland Security announced a plan to implement minimum standards for state-issued ID cards that are used for federal purposes. REAL ID is critical for keeping Americans safe, free, and prosperous. The following is a list of Heritage Foundation research on REAL ID.

Standards Must Be Urgent Priority to Keep Nation Secure After 9/11
by James Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
February 8, 2008
REAL ID is a sensible program for improving the authenticity of identity documents. REAL ID isn't a national identity card and would probably help states financially over the long run.

DHS Gets REAL ID Right
by James Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
February 7, 2008
The Department of Homeland Security has answered states' concerns. It is time for states to accept the responsibility for implementing Real ID.

Making REAL ID Real-Finally
byJames Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
January 11, 2008
Congress should fully fund the President's budget request for REAL ID implementation. DHS has a plan that strengthens privacy protections, respects federalism, and reduces the cost of implementation.

Making REAL ID A Reality--Concerns, Challenges, Choices, Solutions
byJames Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
May 8, 2007
Congress and the Administration must act decisively to make the REAL ID program a reality.

The Real Importance of REAL ID: A Strategy for Saving the Secure Driver's License Initiative
by James Jay Carafano, Ph.D.
May 4, 2007
REAL ID is the right answer at the right time. National standards for driver's licenses will combat crime, thwart terrorists, discourage employment of undocumented workers, and better protect the privacy of individuals.