HF3959 Summary

• Repeals prior prohibition on REAL ID Act implementation and authorizes Minnesota to issue driver's licenses and identification cards that comply with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005 effective October 1, 2016.

• Requires criminal background checks for driver's license agents and certain department employees with access to identification records or ability to issue enhanced credentials, with disqualifying crimes determined by federal regulations.

• Creates three license/identification card options: REAL ID-compliant (marked with federal indicator), noncompliant (marked "Not for Federal Purposes" and barred from certain data sharing), and enhanced versions for cross-border purposes.

• Establishes applicant qualification requirements including verification of lawful status through specific federal documents, Social Security numbers, and Minnesota residence address, with restrictions on applicants whose lawful status expires within 30 days.

• Appropriates $6,270,000 from the driver services operating account for fiscal year 2016 to implement REAL ID Act conformity and requires monthly status reports to the legislature until full implementation is achieved.