If you haven’t updated your driver’s license or identification card yet, now’s the time to start thinking about the REAL ID. Enacted by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued IDs and is designed to enhance the integrity of identification used for federal purposes.
Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card will be required to board domestic flights, access certain federal facilities, and enter secure federal buildings. Without one, travelers will need to present a valid U.S. passport or another federally accepted form of identification.
How to get a REAL ID:
To obtain a REAL ID, you’ll need to visit a DMV office in person and bring documentation that proves:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number
- Legal U.S. residency
- Proof of California residency (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement)
REAL IDs have a gold bear and star in the top right corner, making them easy to identify.
While not mandatory for driving or general ID purposes, having a REAL ID ensures you’re prepared for future federal requirements—especially if you plan to fly within the U.S.
For more information, visit www.dhs.gov/real-id or check with your local DMV.
