REAL ID? How about this : "The U.S. Electronic Passport (e-passport) is the same as a regular passport with the addition of a small contactless
integrated circuit (computer chip) embedded in the back cover. The chip securely stores the same data visually displayed on the photo page of the passport, and additionally includes a digital photograph. The inclusion of the digital photograph enables biometric comparison, through the use of facial recognition technology, at international borders. The U.S. e-passport also has a new look, incorporating additional anti-fraud and security features.
Since August 2007, the U.S. has been issuing only e-passports."
from url:
http://travel.state.gov/passport/eppt/eppt_2498.html
Consider this as a step toward REAL ID. I know not all U S citizens possess a passport, but, recent attempts at controlling the boarders are making it more a possibility. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative could soon put a passport in almost everyones hand.
See:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html
Jack