Reminder: Real ID required for flights starting May 7
Over 1.6 million Californians upgraded to a Real ID in 2024
– The California Department of Motor Vehicles announced that more than 18.5 million residents have upgraded to a Real ID as of Jan. 1, marking an increase of 118,056 since December. Over 1.6 million Californians upgraded to a Real ID in 2024, according to a press release from the California DMV.
The DMV is reminding residents to obtain a Real ID before the May 7, 2025, federal enforcement deadline, when a Real ID or another federally approved document will be required to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities.
“Now is the time to get your Real ID,” DMV Director Steve Gordon said. “You can spend the new year focusing on your exciting plans for 2025.”
To apply for a Real ID, Californians should begin by visiting realid.dmv.ca.gov, completing the online application, and uploading the required documents. Applicants must then visit a DMV office with their documents to complete the process. By starting the process online, the DMV estimates the office visit will take about 15 minutes.
Applicants must provide:
- Proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate. A legal name change document, like a marriage certificate, is required if the name on the proof of identity differs from other documents.
- Two proofs of California residency, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
- A Social Security number, with exceptions in limited cases.
A full list of acceptable documents and a link to the online application are available at realid.dmv.ca.gov.
Real ID data
- Total Real ID cardholders as of Jan. 1: 18,502,217
- Total Real ID cardholders as of Dec. 1: 18,384,161
- Total Real ID cardholders as of Jan. 1, 2024: 16,870,178
Expanded online services
The DMV has expanded digital services to help customers complete tasks without visiting an office. These include driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals, as well as other self-service transactions. Customers can use the Service Advisor tool on the DMV website to determine the best way to complete tasks.
To opt in for paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, customers can create a secure online account at dmv.ca.gov.
