California residents who are looking to upgrade their standard driver’s license to a Real ID compliant one will now have to shell out a few extra dollars for the enhanced security features. The cost of a Real ID driver’s license in California varies based on the applicant’s age and other factors.
According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), the cost of a Real ID driver’s license for residents who are 18 to 70 years old is $36. For those over 70 years old, the cost is reduced to $30. The fee covers the cost of processing the application, as well as the issuance of the new Real ID card.
In addition to the standard fee, applicants must also pay a one-time application fee of $28, which is used to cover the cost of implementing the Real ID program in California. This fee is in addition to any other fees that may be required for a driver’s license renewal.
The Real ID driver’s license is a new type of identification card that meets federal security standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities. It is designed to enhance security and prevent identity theft and fraud by verifying the identity of the cardholder using multiple layers of security features.
To apply for a Real ID driver’s license in California, applicants must visit a DMV office in person and provide proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate, proof of residency, such as a utility bill or rental agreement, and proof of Social Security Number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form.
Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a temporary paper driver’s license and the Real ID card will be mailed to them within a few weeks. The Real ID driver’s license will have a gold star in the upper right corner, indicating that it is compliant with federal security standards.
The cost of a Real ID driver’s license in California may seem steep to some residents, but the benefits of having a secure and reliable form of identification are invaluable. With identity theft and fraud on the rise, it is more important than ever to have a secure form of identification that can be used for important transactions and travel.
California residents who are considering upgrading to a Real ID driver’s license should plan ahead and budget for the additional cost. The peace of mind that comes with having a secure form of identification is well worth the investment.
In conclusion, the cost of a Real ID driver’s license in California is a small price to pay for the enhanced security and peace of mind that comes with having a secure form of identification. Residents who are considering upgrading should be prepared to pay the standard fee, as well as any additional fees that may be required for the application process. By taking the necessary steps to obtain a Real ID driver’s license, residents can protect themselves from identity theft and fraud and enjoy the benefits of a secure form of identification for years to come.
