Dayton Requests Extension for Real ID Law

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Gov. Mark Dayton has formally asked the federal government for more time to comply with new standards for driver's licenses.

Minnesota hasn't upgraded its licenses to meet the requirements of the Real ID Act. It's raised concern that Minnesotans may need an extra form of ID to board a domestic flight as soon as next year.

Dayton sent a letter Friday to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson requesting an extension. Minnesota would need to reverse a 2009 law banning the state from complying, but the Legislature doesn't return until early March.

The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately return a request for comment. Department officials told state lawmakers this summer that they don't grant extensions unless a state is taking steps to comply with the law.