The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced that nearly 18.4 million residents now possess a REAL ID, marking an increase of 104,381 from November 2024. The DMV is encouraging Californians to obtain their REAL ID before the federal enforcement deadline on May 7, 2025. This deadline requires a REAL ID or another federally approved document for domestic flights and access to secure federal facilities.
To apply for a REAL ID, residents should visit REALID.dmv.ca.gov to complete the online application and upload necessary documents. Applicants must then visit a DMV office with their uploaded documents to finalize the process. Completing the initial steps online can reduce office time to about 15 minutes. Required documentation includes proof of identity, two proofs of California residency, and a Social Security number.
As of December 1, 2024, there are 18,384,161 REAL ID cardholders in California, up from 18,279,780 on November 1, 2024, and significantly higher than the total of 16,748,677 on December 1, 2023.
The DMV has expanded its digital services to minimize the need for office visits. Many tasks can be completed online or through other service channels. Customers are encouraged to use these resources for driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals among other transactions. The Service Advisor tool on the DMV website provides guidance on completing various tasks.
To receive paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, customers can create a secure account at dmv.ca.gov and opt in for this service.
