Another REAL ID Change Could Be Coming: What To Know In CA

CALIFORNIA — The deadline for California travelers to get a REAL ID may be fast approaching, but there's a proposal on the table that may grant wiggle room yet again.

The REAL ID Act of 2005 says travelers in the Golden State and nationwide will need an updated driver's license, ID card, or provide other documentation before they can board domestic flights, enter nuclear power plants, or access certain federal buildings.

The Department of Homeland Security has extended the implementation date several times before (the original deadline was 2008). While that deadline is now May 7, 2025, the full implementation of REAL ID cards might not happen until 2027.

To givefederal agencies more flexibility, a new proposed federal rule could allow REAL ID requirements to be implemented in phases, granting another two years until they are fully enforced, according to a news release from the Transportation Security Administration.

That proposal doesn't seek to change the May 2025 deadline. Instead, it would give TSA and other federal agencies discretion to decide whether travelers will be required to have their REAL IDs ready by next spring.

So, unlike previous extensions, this proposal seeks to give federal agencies wiggle room. Applicants are still required to have their REAL ID by May. Those who do not have it by that date may face delays at airport security checkpoints, TSA said.

"TSA is engaging with the public, licensing jurisdictions and states to facilitate a smooth transition to REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025," said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. "REAL ID provides an important security enhancement, and this rule allows us to plan for a range of scenarios to help minimize the potential impact to travelers, industry stakeholders and states during implementation."

Why The Proposal Comes Now

As of January 2024, only about 56 percent of people in the U.S. had driver's licenses and ID cards that are REAL ID-compliant, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

"Because of the history of extensions related to REAL ID enforcement, DHS believes that the public may continue to expect that additional extensions are likely and not feel urgency to obtain a REAL ID," officials said.

Thus, the DHS is anticipating possible "last-minute surges in demand for REAL IDs leading up to the deadline" that could overwhelm state agencies, resulting in backlogs that could prevent people from getting their IDs in time.

Why Do Californians Need A REAL ID?

Getting a REAL ID isn't necessarily required, but the state is recommending it for travelers. U.S. passports will still be an acceptable form of federal identification to board any flight or visit a federal property.

View the DMV's fact sheet about the REAL ID here.

The new federally compliant ID card looks slightly different from a traditional California driver's license. The REAL ID will have a little gold bear in the top right corner, while a traditional driver's license will be labeled "federal limits apply."

How to apply for the REAL ID in California

To apply for the new travel card, you'll need to gather some of the documents listed below and visit your local DMV office.

1. First, gather any of the following identity documents:

• Valid U.S. passport.
• Birth certificate.
• U.S. certificate or consular report of birth abroad.
• Certificate of naturalization or citizenship.
• Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card.
• Unexpired employment authorization document (EAD) Card (I-766) or valid/expired EAD Card with Notice of Action (I-797 C).
• Unexpired Permanent Resident Card or valid/expired Permanent Resident Card with Notice of Action (I-797 C) or Approval Notice (I-797).
• Unexpired foreign passport stamped "Processed for I-551."
• Documents reflecting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) benefit eligibility.

2. Then find proof of your Social Security number (full number required)

• Social Security card
• W-2 form
• SSA-1099 form
• Non-SSA-1099 form
• Pay stub

3. Gather two of these documents to prove California residency

• Home utility bills (including cellular phone).
• Medical documents.
• Car or boat registration.
• Employment documents.
• Insurance documents.
• Bank and financial institution records.
• Change of address confirmation by the U.S. Postal Service.
• Mortgage bill.
• Rental or lease agreement (signed by owner and tenant).
• IRS or California FTB tax return.

4. Fill out the application.

Complete the application process online and upload your documents here.

5. Go to a DMV office

Find one close to you and check wait times before you go.

Pro-Tip: For some areas of California, the DMV isn't the only place residents can get the new identification card. Many can bypass long lines by visiting a participating Automobile Club location. Visit their website for more information. However, AAA does not offer REAL ID services in Northern California.