REAL ID is a drivers license or identification card that is also a federally accepted form of identification. It is a type of identification that meets new rules placed by the federal REAL ID Act, which requires certain forms of identification to be used to board flights within the United States and enter secure federal facilities such as military bases and federal courthouses. A California issued REAL ID driver’s license or identification card meets these new requirements and is marked with a golden bear and star. Applying for a REAL ID requires proof of identity, proof of California residency, and a trip to the DMV. Individuals applying for or renewing an AB 60 driver’s license are not eligible to receive a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card.
Some key points to note about REAL ID are:
- REAL ID is optional, and a person can use other federal compliant identification, such as a valid U.S. passport, to pass through airport security, as well as enter secure federal buildings and military facilities.
- Beginning May 7, 2025, passengers who want to continue to use their driver license or ID card to board a domestic flight will need to show a federal compliant REAL ID driver license or ID card with a special marking.
- The preexisting California driver's licenses and identification cards no longer meet federal standards. The new, REAL ID cards are supposed to be more secure and meet new, federal standards.
- An appointment is not required, but strongly recommended to apply for a REAL ID.
For more information, individuals can refer to the REAL ID Fact Sheets provided by the California DMV or the REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions provided by the Department of Homeland Security.
