Other names for this bill

This bill often is referred to as the Real-ID Act.

This bill created Real-ID

Title II of the bill is named "Improved Security for Drivers' Licenses and Personal Identification Cards".

It defines the requirements for Real-ID.

Legislative history

The Real-ID Act originally passed the House of Representatives as a standalone bill.

However, the increased requirements for the card as well as the sharing of individuals' data was becoming associated with concept of a "national id card", and several representatives withdrew their support for it. It never was considered in the Senate.

The provisions of Real-ID did not die, however. Rather, they were added this defense appropriations bill. With the bill's contents folded into this one, a representative could vote for the larger bill but not be held accountable for supporting Real-ID, since that was only one section (and the appropriations bill was considered a must-pass bill).

For a more in-depth explanation, read this analysis by security consultant Bruce Schneier.