The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has reported that as of February 1, 2025, 18.6 million residents of California possess a REAL ID. This reflects an increase of 169,116 from the previous month. With the federal enforcement deadline fast approaching on May 7, 2025, the DMV advises Californians to secure a REAL ID for uninterrupted domestic travel and access to federal facilities.
DMV Director Steve Gordon emphasized the importance of upgrading to a REAL ID for those with travel plans post-deadline. “If you have plans to travel after May 7, upgrade to a REAL ID before the enforcement deadline,” he stated. He added that individuals already holding a federally approved document like a passport could delay obtaining a REAL ID until their current ID or driver’s license nears expiration.
Californians intending to apply for a REAL ID should begin the process by visiting REALID.dmv.ca.gov to fill out the necessary forms and upload their documentation. Completing this initial step online is expected to reduce the office visit duration to approximately 15 minutes. Required documents include proof of identity, California residency proofs, and a Social Security number, though exceptions may apply.
The DMV has tracked the growth in REAL ID holders, noting an increase from 17,009,013 on February 1, 2024, to 18,671,333 by February 1, 2025.
Efforts to enhance digital services have been a priority for the DMV, which encourages the public to utilize online services to complete most transactions, including those for driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Paperless renewal notices for vehicle registration and driver’s licenses are available by creating a secure account on dmv.ca.gov and opting in for the service.
