Question: I just renewed my driver’s license and got a temporary license that looks like it came from my home printer. I was told it would take two to three weeks for my official license to be mailed, but I will be flying before then. Will I have any issues going through airport security?
Answer: You shouldn’t.
The temporary license is recognized by the Transportation Security Administration for airline travel, said Sheri Kajiwara, director of the city Department of Customer Services.
As part of the new federal Legal Presence Act requirements that took effect on March 5, 2012, driver’s licenses and state ID cards must be mailed to the addresses provided.
The requirement of mailing licenses and ID cards, rather than handing them over the counter as was done in the past, is another way to ensure that people have provided a valid address, Kajiwara said.
This also provides time for submitted documents to pass required federal checks.
In most cases, document checks are completed and the license/ID card is mailed within a week, Kajiwara said. There may be delays if documents need to be resubmitted or if additional information is requested before the approval for mailing is given.
All states are following this as standard procedure, so the temporary license/ID card format is commonly recognized, Kajiwara said.
"However, to avoid problems at smaller airports or for other ID needs while traveling, we recommend that you either carry a second form of picture ID or the expired/invalidated driver license card with you until your permanent card comes in," she said.
Your invalidated license/card was returned to you at the time of your renewal.
Kajiwara reminds drivers that they can renew their license six months before it expires, without affecting the current expiration date.
AUWE
To the person on Hialoa Street in Nuuanu who dumped hibachi ashes straight into the large plastic rubbish bin April 8. When the bin was emptied manually into the opala truck (no automated pickup there), the ashes rained down on the two men collecting your garbage. Have some consideration for these guys who are providing one of the more useful city and county services. — Disgusted
This is a good opportunity to remind residents that throwing things into the trash bin shouldn’t be done thoughtlessly.
The city Department of Environmental Services also says that especially when disposing of charcoal in the trash, residents should make sure it is completely extinguished and placed in a secured bag.
On its opala.org website the department has "tips for sorting, recycling and reducing waste and litter." Among them: "Securely bag all refuse, especially organic/food waste, and periodically rinse out your gray cart to control odor and vectors."
See is.gd/2CyxJ2 for other tips.
MAHALO
To the person who took the time to write me a note to let me know that the back left tire on my car was totally flat April 17. The note was left on the windshield in a public parking lot. You did not leave your name, so I can’t thank you personally. However, I want you to know that your time and effort prevented a dangerous accident from happening as I drove home to Kaneohe on the freeway. I ask other people to follow your example of being a good Samaritan. May your life be filled with blessings. — Maria Lopez Haney
MAHALO
To Abby for staying with us when my wife fell down and broke the lens in her glasses in front of the 433 bus stop in Waipahu due to the uneven road condition. She then drove me to where my car was parked. I am grateful for her help. — Anonymous
