Oklahoma in waiting game for Real ID extension approval

OKLAHOMA (KTUL) — The clock is ticking for Oklahoma officials to find out if their Real ID extension will be approved.

Last month, Oklahoma filed for a year-long extension, but lawmakers are still waiting to hear back.

If not approved, it could affect travel plans for all Oklahomans.

For 11 years, the state's drivers licenses haven't complied with federal law.The deadline is Oct. 10.

"Right now it is not in compliance, and we are still using the ID's that we are provided with till the new ones come out," said Tuan Scott, a clerk at Central Tag Agency.

If it's not approved by the 10th, you'll need a passport to get on a plane or inside a federal building.

"Quite a few ask me about the REAL IDs when they're coming in. I think the big scare is they don't know what to expect," said Scott.

The state didn't get their extension approved last year until Oct.19.

"Last year during that 9 days which we did not get final approval we were still requesting approval. People's travel plans were not hindered." said Michael McNutt, who is with Governor Mary Fallin's office. "We understand that this is a concern for them, and our department of Public Safety is contacting the US Department of Homeland Security to remind them that we are awaiting their decision."

But it'll be a different story in 2020.

McNutt says they should be in full compliance by that point.

He adds that the state hasn't had the funds needed to get the right computer software to make the switch.

Oklahoma is currently in compliance with 30 of the 43 requirements.

State officials say they expect to hear about the extension any day now.