News Summary

Residents of California need to prepare for the upcoming Real ID deadline set for May 7, 2025. The DMV is advising those with a valid U.S. passport to hold off on getting a Real ID if not planning to fly soon. Long wait times are expected at DMV offices, but extended hours will help accommodate applicants. Remember, starting in 2025, standard driver’s licenses will not be accepted for airport security. It’s essential for Californians to stay informed and plan accordingly to avoid delays.

California Residents: The Real ID Deadline is Looming!

Hey there, California friends! As we gear up for some summer fun, there’s an important change coming our way that you need to be aware of. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is advising anyone with a valid U.S. passport to hold off on getting a Real ID for now. Yes, you heard it right!

What’s Happening?

So here’s the scoop: starting on May 7, 2025, new identification rules for U.S. airports will be rolled out, and it’s going to change the way we travel. If you didn’t know, a standard driver’s license won’t cut it for airport security anymore. To board a flight, you’ll need either a Real ID or your passport. Quite the shake-up, huh?

Who Should Wait?

DMV Director Steve Gordon let us in on a little tip: if you already have a valid U.S. passport or aren’t planning to fly anywhere domestically anytime soon, you can totally wait to get your Real ID. If you’re among those who find yourself pondering what to do, this advice is definitely worth considering.

Long Wait Times Ahead

long wait times. It’s like everyone got the memo at once! To help with the influx of applicants, the DMV has decided to extend hours at selected offices. This means there’s a bit of a light at the end of the tunnel for those needing a Real ID.

What to Expect with Extended Hours

For those living in the Bay Area, mark your calendars! Special extended hours are set for Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at certain offices to assist Real ID applicants. But wait, there’s more! Until June 27, select DMV offices will open their doors an hour earlier, at 7 a.m. on weekdays—just not on Wednesdays. This precious hour is exclusively for folks applying for a Real ID.

How to Get Your Real ID

Don’t forget that all these extended hours require making an appointment, and they’re solely meant for Real ID applications. To get started, you’ll need to hop onto the DMV’s website, fill out your application online, and gather your identity and proof-of-address documents. Then it’s off to the DMV office to complete your application in person. The good news? Once you’ve completed the online application, the office visit should only take about 15 minutes.

Take Care of Other Business Online

If you’re looking to take care of other DMV tasks, you might want to check if you can tackle those online. There’s no need to spend time in the office when you can handle it from the comfort of your home.

Real ID Compliance Stats

Quick stats for you: as of January 1, more than 18.5 million Californians have gotten their Real ID. However, compliance is only at about 55%, which means a lot of folks are still in the dark on this! With nearly 35 million eligible residents in the state, it’s crucial to pay attention.

Final Thoughts

The TSA has made it crystal clear: no additional extensions for the Real ID deadline will be issued, so if you’re one of the travelers without the proper ID come May 7, 2025, expect delays and extra security checks at the airports. It’s also worth noting that while the TSA does accept several other forms of ID, those without a suitable ID may be left outside security checkpoints.

In short, if you’re a California resident, try to keep your Real ID plans flexible. Waiting might save you a whole lot of time and frustration. Stay informed, and happy travels!

California Real ID Deadline Approaches