California DMVs have taken steps to accommodate the rush for REAL ID with special openings scheduled, but will this be enough ahead of the compliance deadline?
At a Glance
- 18.6 million Californians have a REAL ID as of February 2025.
- Federal enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025.
- Special DMV appointments on May 10 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- REAL ID required for U.S. domestic flights after the deadline.
Special DMV Openings Announced
In an effort to meet the looming REAL ID deadline, California DMVs will be opening select offices on May 10 for special REAL ID appointments. These openings are particularly aimed at those who need to comply with the federal REAL ID mandate that comes into effect on May 7, 2025. Seven offices in Southern California and four in Northern California will accommodate these appointments. The offices will operate from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., exclusively for REAL ID services.
By February 2025, 18.6 million Californians had obtained the REAL ID. In line with the federal requirements instituted post-9/11, residents traveling within the U.S. must possess a REAL ID or equivalent identification. The initiative also notes a significant issuance increase of 169,116 REAL IDs from January to February 2025, reflecting an urgency among residents to meet the compliance deadline.
Meeting the Federal Mandate
The REAL ID Act, established not long after the September 11 attacks in 2005, sets out enhanced security guidelines for state-issued identification cards. It underscores the necessity for secure documentation to verify identity, primarily during domestic travel. With multiple deferrals due to challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the mandatory enforcement date is now definitively set for May 7, 2025. Beyond this date, air travelers will need a REAL ID for domestic flights.
“If you have plans to travel after May 7, upgrade to a REAL ID before the enforcement deadline,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “However, if you already have a federally approved document such as a passport, you can wait to upgrade to a REAL ID when your ID or driver’s license is due for renewal.” – DMV Director Steve Gordon.
Californians are advised to apply early to avoid possible delays. The process involves visiting realid.dmv.ca.gov to complete an online application, uploading the required documents, and scheduling an appointment for an in-person visit to a DMV office. Californians can rest assured that if they possess a federal document like a passport, they can take more time to upgrade to a REAL ID later.
Making the Transition Smooth
In response to the anticipated demand, appointments can be scheduled online, offering a streamlined transition for Californians. Those seeking to obtain a REAL ID can use the appointment system to manage their time efficiently on May 10, at either Southern California locations – including Fullerton and Glendale – or Northern California offices like those in Concord and Oakland.
The drive towards meeting this compliance deadline signifies a crucial adaptation aligning state identification procedures to federal standards. As the deadline looms closer, the focus remains on ensuring access and ease for all residents in acquiring this new travel credential.
