What Is a California REAL ID and Why Do I Need One?

Beginning May 7, 2025, all California residents will need a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or military ID to fly domestically. All 50 states and the District of Columbia require REAL ID-compliant cards to board an airplane, enter a federal facility where identification is required, or enter a nuclear power plant. The REAL ID Act sets identification standards for state driver’s licenses. 

Here is what you need to know about the REAL ID in California: 

Key Takeaways

• Deadline: May 7, 2025 – REAL ID required for all domestic flights
• Cost: $40 application fee at California DMV
• Required documents: Proof of identity (passport/birth certificate) + SSN + 2 California residency proofs
• Must apply in person at DMV (online pre-application available)
• Alternative IDs accepted: U.S. passport, passport card, military ID
• 17 million Californians already have REAL ID
• Not required for driving, only for flying and federal facilities

What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a more secure identification card accepted by the U.S. federal government. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act is meant to improve security and minimize fraud following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. 

California REAL ID-compliant cards will have a gold bear in the upper top portion of the card, differentiating them from standard driver’s licenses. Find examples of REAL IDs here. 

According to recent data from the California Department of Motor Vehicles, nearly 17 million Californians hold a REAL ID. While getting one is optional, you will need one to fly within the U.S. or enter federal facilities and military bases after next year’s deadline. 

REAL ID Requirements

To obtain a REAL ID, you must first apply online through the California DMV website. You will be asked to provide identification, such as a U.S. passport or passport card, a U.S. birth certificate, or a permanent resident card. You will also be asked to provide your Social Security number and two documents proving your California residency. This could be a utility bill, a phone bill, or a bank statement. Both documents must show your first and last name with the same mailing address that is listed on your REAL ID application. For a full list of acceptable documents and a link to the online application, click here. 

Once you have your proof of identity and residency documents, visit your local DMV office to complete the application process. You will need to bring the required documents to the DMV and pay a $40 application fee. Currently, you can only obtain a REAL ID by visiting the DMV in person; however, this may change in the future. 

Identity Documents (choose one):

• U.S. passport or passport card
• Certified U.S. birth certificate
• Valid permanent resident card
• Valid employment authorization document

Social Security Number:

• Social Security card
• W-2 form
• SSA-1099 form
• Pay stub with full SSN

California Residency Proofs (need two):

• Utility bill (gas, electric, water, cable)
• Cell phone bill
• Bank or credit card statement
• Mortgage or lease agreement
• Vehicle registration
• Insurance documents

A California Driver’s License vs. a REAL ID

A REAL ID is not a separate form of identification; it is a standard driver’s license that adheres to the federal government’s standards.

If you opt out of obtaining a REAL ID, your driver’s license or ID card will be marked with “Federal Limits Apply.” This designation indicates that the ID cannot be used to board domestic flights or enter secure federal facilities after May 7, 2025.

Those who wish to apply for or renew a standard driver’s license can complete the process online, as most DMV business can be completed online. As of June 2024, renewing vehicle registration or a driver’s license/ID card, replacing a driver’s license/ID card, or requesting a driver and vehicle record can only be done online, not at a DMV office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a REAL ID immediately?

While the deadline is May 7, 2025, the DMV recommends applying for a California REAL ID as soon as possible to avoid long wait times closer to the deadline. You should upgrade as soon as possible if you need to use your license or ID to board domestic flights. 

Do minors need a REAL ID to fly? 

Children under 18 will not be required to provide identification when traveling with an adult in the United States. However, the adult will need to present acceptable identification.

Will I need a REAL ID to drive in California?

You do not need a REAL ID to drive in California. You may continue to use a California driver’s license to drive, vote or register to vote, apply for or receive federal benefits, access hospitals, and enter federal facilities that do not require identification. 

Will TSA accept identity documents other than driver’s licenses?

Yes, TSA accepts other forms of identity documents, such as a passport or a Permanent Resident Card. 

Can I use my REAL ID to cross into Mexico or Canada?

No, REAL ID is only for domestic air travel and federal facilities. You need a passport, passport card, or enhanced driver’s license for international land border crossings.

What if my name changed due to marriage or divorce?

You’ll need to provide legal documentation of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) in addition to the standard REAL ID requirements.

Can undocumented immigrants get a REAL ID in California?

No, REAL ID requires proof of legal presence in the United States. However, California offers AB 60 driver’s licenses for undocumented residents, marked with “Federal Limits Apply.”