What Travelers Need to Know About Obtaining a Real ID in California

If you’re flying in the next few days or weeks, be prepared for potential long lines at the airport as TSA starts taking a
closer look at IDs
.

Driving the news:

Wednesday is the initial day.
Real ID compliant license
— or another suitable document — is required to boarding a commercial airplane in the U.S.

Following many postponements, the deadline for May 7 implies that individuals who do not have one might encounter extra screening processes or may be prohibited from passing through security checkpoints.
This requirement is necessary when entering military installations and secure federal facilities such as courthouses.

State of play:

A Real ID is a government-produced driver’s license or ID card that adheres to stringent federal safety requirements.

In California, they feature a yellow bear with a star in the upper right corner.
According to the California DMV, approximately 55% of currently issued IDs meet the necessary requirements.

Yes, but:

If you possess a valid U.S. passport, green card, military identification, or DHS trusted traveler documents such as Global Entry or SENTRI, there’s no cause for alarm. These forms of ID will be accepted at TSA security points for traveling within the country.

California residents who have a valid passport may delay renewing their driver’s license until it expires.

In California, a Real ID features a golden bear accompanied by a star. Photo: CA DMV

Zoom in:

To
obtain a California Real ID
,, schedule an appointment at the DMV, finish the online application, and upload
papers to confirm your identification and place of residence
.

Carry your confirmation number along with the required documentation such as a passport, birth certificate, utility bill, or bank statement to your scheduled meeting.

Some local DMV offices

are
opening an hour early
for REAL ID appointments through June 27, including in Clairemont, San Marcos, El Cajon and Poway.

The Poway DMV is also open exclusively for these
appointments
on Saturday, May 10.

Between the lines:

With more than 40,000 passengers departing daily, the San Diego International Airport is anticipating
delays
as enforcement starts and advises travelers to arrive early.