MVA encouraging people to get their ‘Real IDs’

The MVA is making it easier to make sure your license and documentation is up to date with the Federal Real ID Act.

In the mail, locals have been receiving letters letting Marylanders know to bring in certain documents that the state does not have on file, such as a birth certificate, social security card, and proof of residency when they come to renew their license.

The more "Real IDs" on the roadways, the easier it is for officers to know who they're dealing with.

"Certainly as police officers we've investigated a lot of incidents and having an accurate identification will be a big assistance to us," said Ocean Pines Police Chief David Massey.

These more secure licenses serve to add more security for law enforcement on the roadways for several reasons.

"It's imperative that we know who we're dealing with and for many reasons.  The officers safety if they individual has a history of violence, whether the person is wanted for a criminal act, and all these things give us an accurate identification," said Massey.

Especially in an area that sees an immense amount of people coming in during the summer months.

"People had identification drivers licenses and now were dealing with an environment where people come from all over the world to Ocean City Ocean Pines area," said Massey.   "Having something to identify them is critical to our line of work."

Maryland has been notifying residents since the end of the last year through the mail when they need documentation.  But if you're curious and don't want to wait until you have renew your license, you can now find that on the MVA website.