The deadline to get your California Real ID has arrived. After two decades of federal delays, the state’s new identification requirement goes into effect starting Wednesday, May 7.

The deadline to get a California REAL ID is Wednesday, May 7. After the deadline, the new identification will be required to enter federal facilities such as military bases, courthouses, and other ...

After two decades of delays, California’s Real ID requirement is now in effect. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security now requires people to have a federally approved document — such as a ...

Because of an increase in Real ID applications in recent weeks, the California Department of Motor Vehicles has encouraged people who don’t immediately need one to wait until the activity dies down.

California Real ID travel requirements began May 7, 2025, for travelers boarding domestic plane flights. Find out how to apply online or make an appointment.

As of Feb. 1, 18.6 million Californians had a REAL ID, the California DMV said in a news release. You’ll see a golden bear and star on your REAL ID-compliant license or identification card ...

As of Jan. 1, more than 18.5 million California residents have their Real ID, compared with last year’s January count of 16.9 million according to data from the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

Those who still lack an identification that complies with the REAL ID law “may be diverted to a different line, have an extra step,” Noem said. “But people will be allowed to fly,” she said.

Although the DMV across California has seen a significant increase in people trying to obtain Real ID, this SFGATE reporter has no plans to get one — ever.