The deadline to obtain the REAL ID in California is May 7, 2025, a deadline that has been extended for two more years. This was announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in 2022.
In this way, residents of that State can process it, without time pressure, at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Do not forget that with the REAL ID you will be able to travel by plane and fully identify yourself in California. Although you still have two years to complete the procedures, the recommendation is that you complete them as soon as possible. Avoid reaching the end of the established period.
According to official data issued by the DMV, there are already 14 million people who have processed their REAL ID in California. However, there are still many residents in that State to carry out the process.
Steps to follow to process the REAL ID in California
The first thing you need to do is present proof of identity. For this you have several options. Consider the following list.
- A valid passport or passport card
- Original United States birth certificate or certified copy (abstract documents are not valid)
- Valid residence card
- Foreign passport accompanied by a VISA and an I-94 form
- Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
- Certified copy of birth in a United States territory
- Employment Authorization Document EAD I-766
- Permanent resident card
- Foreign birth certificate or consular report of birth
- Foreign passport with a stamp from an I-551 process
- Documents that prove a TPS eligibility process
Another important aspect is to verify that you live in California. How to do it? Here we offer you a guide of what you should show.
- receipts from public or cell phone services
- Medical, dental, vision, life, home, rental or rent, or vehicle insurance documents
- Account statements from banks, state or federal savings associations, industrial loans, credit companies or any institution that issues a credit card
- bills of mortgages
- employment documents
- Tax refund, either from the IRS or the California Franchise Tax Board
- School enrollment documents
Then make your application online.
- Create a MyDMV account or sign in if you already have one
- Have your Social Security Number (SSN) nearby
- Complete the application with the information requested
- Be sure to save your registration confirmation number
Lastly, visit a DMV office to acquire your REAL ID. Take the documents in original or certified copies and your confirmation code, which works like an appointment.
