Sydnee Jones, who runs the Central Tag Agency at 1632 S. Harvard Ave. in Tulsa, speaks to people already lined up outside the office as she arrives at work on Feb. 4.
OKLAHOMA CITY — Gov. Kevin Stitt has signed an executive order designed to alleviate some problems residents are having with getting driver’s licenses.
The order, signed Wednesday, says COVID-19 has contributed to “unacceptable delays” in processing licenses and other identification cards.
The implementation of Real ID and cutbacks at the Department of Public Safety have also been pointed to as causes of monthslong waiting lists at tag agencies and driver examination stations.
Tag agents in the state say the Real ID computer network is slow and often fails altogether.
As a result, many Oklahomans’ driver’s licenses and state-issued identification cards are expiring before they can be replaced with Real ID cards.
Stitt’s executive order waives statutory or other restrictions on tag agents to make it easier for people to renew a license, allows Oklahomans to obtain identification if a Real ID is not available and allows Oklahomans to obtain a downgraded license if necessary. It also would allow third parties to administer driver’s license exams.
“No Oklahoman should have to wait months to obtain an ID or take a day off work to renew their license,” Stitt said.
Those seeking licenses or identification still must provide the proper documentation.
The Department of Public Safety shares the public’s frustration and is working on critical improvements to improve delivery of license services, Public Safety Commissioner John Scully said.
More than 40 members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives had asked Stitt in a letter Tuesday to do something about the long waits. The letter asked Stitt to take additional steps, all of which are covered by legislation under consideration this session.
Stitt also issued another executive order Wednesday to expedite the delivery of liquified petroleum products.
The order suspends certain regulations for the next 30 days for truck drivers who are transporting propane.
The executive order says Oklahoma and surrounding states are experiencing an extended period of cold weather, increasing the demand for propane.
Distributors are already having shortages in supply and transportation challenges, the executive order says.
“Many Oklahomans depend on the use of liquefied petroleum products for survival during the winter months,” the order says.
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What to know before getting a Real ID
Where can Tulsans get Real ID?
A live map is available at realid.ok.gov.
DPS recommends calling tag agents before visiting.
Downtown Tulsa Tag Agency, 1414 S. Denver Ave.
Southeast Tag Agency, 4309 S. Sheridan Road
Eastside Tag Agency, 1914 S. Garnett Road
DPS Eastgate, 14002 E. 21st St.
Barnes Tag Agency, 6542 E. 91st St.
How long does the process take?
The process can take about 20-30 minutes, after which you will receive a temporary paper card. Your Real ID will be mailed to you within about seven business days.
What paperwork will I need?
Oklahomans will need to bring proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), proof of Social Security (Social Security card or W-2 tax form) and two proofs of residency (lease agreement, mortgage statement, utility bill or voter registration card).
Oklahomans that have changed their name when they got married or divorced will have to provide additional paperwork.
A full list of acceptable documents can be found at realid.ok.gov.
How much does it cost?
A non-commercial Real ID will be $42.50; license renewals will cost $38.50. It costs $25 to replace a lost Real ID or to convert a person’s current noncompliant card to a Real ID. Seniors 62 and older can get a discount and those 65 and older can get an ID free of charge.
What's the difference?
A Real ID may not look significantly different from a standard identification card — the only visible physical difference is a gold star in one corner.
What if I already have a passport or military ID?
Consider holding off on getting a Real ID-compliant license until your driver’s license is about to expire. Then you can renew your license and switch it over in one fell swoop.
State officials have estimated roughly 600,000 Oklahomans don’t already have a Real ID, like a passport, which means there will be a significant influx of people seeking to get a Real ID.
Do I have to get a Real ID?
No, but as of Oct. 1, 2021, Oklahomans will be required to show a Real ID to fly domestically or to enter federal facilities.
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Barbara Hoberock
Capitol Bureau Writer
I have covered the Oklahoma Legislature since 1994. I cover politics, appellate courts, state agencies and the governor. I have worked for the Tulsa World since 1990. Phone: 405-528-2465
