California DMV Begins Issuing Real ID-compliant Driver’s Licenses for Airport Security
Starting on October 1, 2020, passengers flying within the United States will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification to pass through airport security. To help Californians comply with this new requirement, the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has begun issuing Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses, making it easier and more convenient for residents to travel by air.
The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These new standards are intended to enhance the security of identification documents and help prevent identity theft and fraud. In order to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, applicants must provide additional documentation to verify their identity, such as a birth certificate or passport, as well as proof of residency.
The California DMV began issuing Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses on January 22, 2018, giving residents nearly three years to upgrade their identification before the October 2020 deadline. The new licenses feature a star in the upper right corner, indicating that they meet the federal requirements for boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal facility.
“Obtaining a Real ID-compliant driver’s license is a simple process that can be completed at any DMV office,” said a spokesperson for the California DMV. “We want to make sure that all Californians are aware of the upcoming deadline and have the information they need to upgrade their identification in time.”
To apply for a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, applicants must visit a DMV office in person and provide the required documentation. This includes a valid Social Security number, proof of identity and residency, and proof of legal presence in the United States. The DMV also recommends that applicants make an appointment in advance to reduce wait times and ensure a smooth application process.
In addition to the star marking on the front of the license, Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses also feature a new design with enhanced security features to prevent counterfeiting and tampering. These features include a tactile signature, raised print, and a photograph that is digitally encoded into the card. These new security measures are intended to make it more difficult for counterfeiters to produce fake identification documents.
The California DMV has been working to streamline the application process for Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses, in order to make it as convenient as possible for residents to obtain their upgraded identification. In addition to making appointments available online, the DMV has also extended its hours of operation at select locations to accommodate the increased demand for Real ID-compliant licenses.
“We understand that this new requirement may be confusing or overwhelming for some residents,” said the DMV spokesperson. “That’s why we are committed to providing the information and support that Californians need to obtain their Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses before the deadline.”
For residents who are unable to visit a DMV office in person, the DMV also offers the option to renew or upgrade their driver’s license by mail. This service is available to residents who are renewing their license for the first time since the Real ID-compliant licenses became available in 2018, and who do not need to change their name, address, or other personal information.
In addition to airport security, Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses will also be required for access to certain federal facilities, such as military bases and nuclear power plants. Residents who do not upgrade their identification to a Real ID-compliant driver’s license by the October 2020 deadline may still use their standard driver’s license for driving and other non-federal purposes.
Overall, the California DMV is encouraging residents to take action now to obtain their Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses, in order to avoid delays or issues when the new security requirements go into effect. By upgrading their identification early, Californians can ensure that they are prepared for the upcoming changes and can continue to travel by air without any disruptions.
“We want to make sure that all residents are informed and prepared for this new requirement,” said the DMV spokesperson. “We are here to help guide Californians through the application process and answer any questions they may have about obtaining their Real ID-compliant driver’s license.”
