California residents looking to obtain a Real ID driver’s license will need to provide specific documents to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to prove their identity and residency. The Real ID Act, enacted by Congress in 2005, requires states to issue more secure forms of identification to comply with federal security standards. The Real ID driver’s license can be used for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities starting in October 2020.
In order to apply for a Real ID driver’s license in California, residents must provide the following documents:
1. Proof of identity: This can be a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or government-issued birth certificate. For those who have changed their name, they will also need to provide a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court-ordered name change document.
2. Social Security number: Residents will need to provide their Social Security number, either through their Social Security card or a W-2 form.
3. Proof of California residency: This can be a utility bill, rental agreement, mortgage bill, or any other official document with the applicant’s name and current California address.
4. Proof of legal presence in the U.S.: This can be a valid U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document.
Additionally, residents will need to bring their current driver’s license or identification card, as well as payment for the application fee. The fee for a Real ID driver’s license in California is $36, on top of the standard licensing fees.
The DMV has made it easier for residents to apply for a Real ID driver’s license by offering online appointments and extended hours at certain offices. Residents can also start the application process online by completing the Real ID application form and uploading the necessary documents before visiting a DMV office in person.
California residents are encouraged to start the application process early, as the October 2020 deadline for Real ID enforcement approaches. Without a Real ID driver’s license or other accepted form of identification, residents may not be able to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities.
For those who are unable to obtain a Real ID driver’s license, there are other options available, such as a passport or passport card, which can also be used for domestic air travel. However, the Real ID driver’s license is a convenient and secure form of identification that will soon be required for certain activities.
Overall, obtaining a Real ID driver’s license in California requires specific documents to prove identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. Residents are encouraged to start the application process early to ensure they have the necessary identification for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities. The DMV is available to assist residents in obtaining their Real ID driver’s license and answering any questions they may have about the application process.
