The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles state-issued identification, licensing, and vehicle registration. It also maintains driver records and sets standards that keep drivers and roads safe. One of the most important services currently offered is the issuance of a REAL ID, a federally accepted form of identification.
The DMV doesn’t issue REAL IDs automatically—you have to apply in person and provide specific documents.
What is a REAL ID?
REAL ID is a state-issued license or identification card that meets federal security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. Congress passed the act in response to post-9/11 security concerns, requiring states to verify a person’s identity and residency before issuing federally compliant IDs.
A REAL ID is not the same as a passport, but it’s accepted at airport security checkpoints and federal buildings as official proof of identity. You must visit a DMV office in person and bring specific original documents.
Who Needs One — and Why
Not every resident is required to get a California REAL ID, but many will need one by May 7, 2025. Starting on that date, federal agencies will require either a REAL ID or a valid passport to:
- Board domestic flights within the United States
- Enter secure federal buildings (such as military bases or federal courthouses)
- Access nuclear power plants and other restricted sites
A REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel, and it isn’t required to drive, vote, or access hospitals and other essential services.
For those who do travel or need federal access, a REAL ID provides a convenient and secure form of identification accepted nationwide.
REAL ID Eligibility for Non-Citizens in California
Non-citizens are eligible to apply for a REAL ID in California if they can prove lawful presence in the United States and residence in the state. To apply, they must provide the following:
- A valid foreign passport along with approved U.S. immigration documents
- Two documents that show their full name and California residential address (such as a lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement)
- A Social Security Number, or an official ineligibility letter from the Social Security Administration if they are not eligible for one
Confirm which immigration and residency documents are accepted by checking the current guidelines on the California DMV website before applying.
REAL ID Requirements
You’ll need to bring specific documents to your local DMV office when applying for a REAL ID. All documents must be originals or certified copies—photocopies or digital images are not accepted.
A. Proof of Identity
You must present one document that verifies your full legal name and date of birth:
- Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
- Certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Foreign passport with an unexpired U.S. visa and a valid I-94 form
If your legal name has changed and does not match your identity document, bring a certified name change document such as:
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Legal name change court order.
B. Proof of Social Security Number
You must show one document that includes your full Social Security number. Acceptable forms include:
- Original Social Security card
- W-2 form with full SSN
- SSA-1099 or non-SSA-1099 form
- A recent pay stub showing your full SSN and legal name
C. Proof of California Residency
You must bring two separate documents that show your full name and physical California address. These must be current and dated within the last month or two.
Examples include:
- Utility bill (gas, electric, water, internet)
- Bank or credit card statement
- Rental or lease agreement
- Mortgage bill or home insurance document
- California vehicle registration
- Property tax bill or government-issued letter
- P.O. boxes are not accepted—documents must show a street address where you live.
After gathering the correct documents, you’ll be ready to begin the REAL ID application process.
How to Apply for a California REAL ID
Applying for a REAL ID in California involves several steps that must be completed in a specific order. Starting early and preparing your documents in advance will make the in-person visit quicker and ensure you meet your REAL ID deadlines.
Step 1: Start Your Application Online
Begin by visiting the California DMV REAL ID Application Portal. Complete the application by entering your personal details, including your legal name, address, and date of birth.
Once finished, you’ll receive a confirmation code. Save this code for use when you visit the DMV. The online form helps DMV staff retrieve your file, reducing processing time.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need:
- One document proving identity
- One document verifying your Social Security number
- Two documents showing California residency
- A legal name change document, if applicable
All documents must be original or certified copies. Verify that your name appears consistently across all of them. Download the full list of acceptable documents from the DMV here: REAL ID Checklist.
Step 3: Make a DMV Appointment (Recommended)
You can schedule an appointment through the DMV website by selecting a date, time, and location that suits you. Walk-ins are allowed, but depending on the time of day, you may wait longer.
Step 4: Visit the DMV In Person
On the day of your appointment, bring all your documents and your REAL ID application confirmation code. A DMV staff member will:
- Review and scan your documents
- Take your photo
- Collect your fingerprint
- Process your payment
REAL ID fees in California are:
- Approximately $41 for a driver’s license
- Approximately $36 for an identification card
Most DMV offices accept credit or debit cards, cash, checks, and money orders, but payment options vary by location.
Step 5: Receive Your REAL ID by Mail
You’ll receive a temporary paper license or ID to use while you wait for your card to arrive. Your REAL ID will be mailed within 2-4 weeks. It remains valid for the same period as a standard California license—usually five years.
Benefits of Having a REAL ID
- A REAL ID provides access to federally regulated services using a single card.
- Includes enhanced security features, making it harder to counterfeit.
- Domestic travel without a passport.
Conclusion
Getting a REAL ID in California is a one-time process that helps you meet upcoming federal requirements. If you plan to travel by plane within the U.S. or access certain government buildings after May 7, 2025, you’ll need to show a REAL ID or a valid U.S. passport.
Taking care of it early avoids last-minute stress. Wait times may increase closer to the deadline as more residents apply. The sooner you complete the process, the better your chances of avoiding delays.