REAL ID Required for Domestic Flights and Access Starting May 3, 2023

What is REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act is a federal law that sets security standards for drivers' licenses and identification cards issued by states and territories. The purpose of REAL ID is to improve the security of identification documents and prevent identity fraud.

REAL ID Requirements in California

To be REAL ID compliant, a California driver's license or identification card must include the following security features:

• A photograph of the applicant
• The applicant's full name, date of birth, and address
• The applicant's signature
• A document number
• An expiration date
• A tamper-resistant feature

How to Get or Renew a REAL ID in California

To get or renew a REAL ID in California, you must visit a California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You will need to provide the following documents:

• Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card)
• Proof of residency (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement)
• A completed REAL ID application form

The fee for a REAL ID driver's license or identification card is $38. The fee includes the cost of the card and the cost of the background check.

REAL ID Deadline

The REAL ID Act requires all states and territories to issue REAL ID-compliant drivers' licenses and identification cards by May 3, 2023. Beginning May 3, 2023, travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.