I want to know what people's thoughts are about the upcoming REAL ID in December 2009? I think it has to do with more strict rules about getting a license. But then it says you will have to have your REAL ID card to get inside banks, courthouses, and other federal buildings. Its scary because the gov't is wanting more and more control.

REAL ID is a nationwide effort to improve the integrity and security of state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, which in turn will help fight terrorism and reduce fraud.

The 9/11 Commission recommended that the U.S. improve its system for issuing identification documents, urging the Federal government to set standards for the issuance of sources of identification. The REAL ID Act of 2005 was Congress' response to this key recommendation.

REAL ID compliant licenses and ID cards must meet minimum standards which include

information and security features that must be incorporated into each card
applicant's proof of identity and U.S. citizenship status
verification of the applicant's source documents
security standards for issuers of licenses and identification cards
Why We Need REAL ID
State-issued identification is an important step toward enhancing national security. Because driver's license serves so many purposes (access to federal buildings, nuclear power plants, boarding aircraft, etc.), terrorists actively seek fraudulent state-issued identification. The REAL ID rules will make it more difficult for them, while making it easier for law enforcement to detect falsified documents.

REAL ID Next Steps
REAL ID went into effect May 11, 2008. Recognizing states need more time to implement REAL ID, the department has offered states an extension to allow time to meet the requirements. States granted extensions.

If your state has been granted a REAL ID extension, your current driver's license is still a valid form of identification for boarding a federally-regulated airplane, accessing a federal facility or nuclear power plant.

more info http://www.dhs.gov/xprevprot/programs/gc_1200062053842.shtm