California DMV urges residents to get REAL ID before May deadline

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has reported that nearly 18.3 million residents now possess a REAL ID, marking an increase of 141,691 from the previous month. The DMV suggests that with the approaching May 7, 2025 federal enforcement deadline, now is an ideal time to obtain a REAL ID. This identification will be necessary for domestic flights and entry into secure federal facilities.

Californians can apply for a REAL ID by visiting REALID.dmv.ca.gov to fill out the online application and upload necessary documents. To complete the process, applicants must visit a DMV office with their uploaded documents. Completing these steps online should reduce in-office time to approximately 15 minutes.

Applicants need to provide proof of identity with one original or certified document such as a valid passport or birth certificate. If there is a name change, legal documentation like marriage certificates or adoption papers is required. Two paper copies proving California residency and a Social Security number are also needed.

For more details on acceptable documents and the online application link, individuals can visit REALID.dmv.ca.gov.

As of November 1, 2024, there were 18,279,780 total REAL ID cardholders compared to 18,138,089 on October 1, 2024 and 16,624,827 on November 1, 2023.

The DMV continues to expand its digital services to minimize the need for office visits. Most tasks can be completed online including driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Customers are encouraged to use these services through the DMV website where they can also find options using the Service Advisor tool.

To receive paperless notices for vehicle registration and driver’s license renewals, customers should create or sign in to their secure online account at dmv.ca.gov and opt-in for this service.