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California REAL ID

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Updated: 3/18/25

California Compliance with Federal REAL ID Act Requirements

Under the REAL ID Act, the California DMV must meet requirements set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for its driver licenses and identification cards to be accepted for federal purposes.

How the REAL ID Act Impacts Californians

Beginning May 7, 2025, the federal government will require your driver license or ID card to be REAL ID compliant if you wish to use it as identification to board a domestic flight or to enter military bases and most federal facilities. The California DMV is now offering federal compliant REAL ID driver licenses or ID cards to customers.

Do I Need a REAL ID?

If you have a valid U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card, military ID, or other form of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved identification, you may use it as your form of identification to pass TSA airport checkpoints nationwide and to visit a secure federal building or military base. Check the TSA website at www.tsa.gov for a complete list of approved identification.

If you know you will not be boarding a domestic flight or visiting a secure federal facility or military base, you do not need a REAL ID driver license or ID card.

You DO NOT need a REAL ID to:

  • Drive
  • Apply for or receive federal benefits (Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, etc.)
  • Enter a federal facility that does not require ID (i.e., a post office)
  • Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services

Those under 18 are not required to have a REAL ID to fly.

Who is Eligible for a REAL ID?

U.S. citizens and all legal residents of the United States can apply for a REAL ID driver license or ID card.

What Does a REAL ID Look Like?

A REAL ID driver license and ID card will have a special marking in the top right corner of the card. The marking is the California grizzly bear with a star.

How to Upgrade to a REAL ID

Californians who do not have a REAL ID but already hold a valid passport can wait to convert to a REAL ID when their driver's license is due for renewal.

To apply for a REAL ID card:

  1. Gather the necessary documents. Here is an interactive checklist that helps you determine which documents you need: DMV Document Checklist Tool
    • Original documents or certified copies are required.
       
  2. Fill out this online application: Driver's License and ID Application
    • Note: You will need to create a MyDMV account as part of the application if you don't already have one set up. DMV uses two-factor authentication to prove your digital identity; it requires an email address and a way to receive a phone call or text message.
    • The average time to complete this application is 9 minutes. For privacy and security purposes, the app times out after 15 minutes. If you cannot complete the application in one sitting, don't worry; you may log in to your DMV account and finish it later. (Applications are stored up to one year, and are only processed when you visit a DMV field office.)
    • BE SURE TO SAVE YOUR CONFIRMATION CODE
       
  3. Visit a DMV office with your documents and confirmation code. Your confirmation code is treated like an appointment ensuring expedited service.

For more information, visit Apply for REAL ID - California DMV.