California residents have 24 more months to get their REAL IDs. This document is required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. The extension was made Monday by the Department of Homeland Security.

Officials stated that the extension was necessary partly because of COVID-19-related problems that have caused backlogs at state agencies responsible for issuing driver’s licenses.

Many states took precautions, including automatically extending the expiration dates for driver’s licenses or identification cards and switching to appointment-only scheduling.

California’s DMV makes it easy to get a REAL ID. You can submit documents online and have them approved before you go. Then, you will need to verify your identity in person at the DMV office. You can also make an appointment at the DMV in advance.

Due to the pandemic, the compliance deadline was extended several times beyond its original date of April 27, 2020. It was extended to October 20,21, but DHS extended it again in May 2023.

Federal agencies, including TSA, won’t be able accept ID that is not REAL ID compliant after the May 7th enforcement date.

After the terrorist attacks on 9/11, Congress passed the REALID Act of 2005. To obtain a REALID, you will need four pieces of identification: a passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or tax return. You also need two documents that prove your residence such as a utility bill or mortgage receipt.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, these cards will not only have stars on REAL ID driver’s licenses but they will also be made with new technology that makes them more difficult to forge.

You don’t need a REAL ID if you aren’t planning to fly domestically or visit any federal offices. To get a driver’s license, you don’t have to show a REAL ID. The TSA will not require minors under 18 years old to show identification when they travel with an adult companion in the United States. However, acceptable identification must be provided by the companion.

The REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel. It also does not affect your ability to vote or register for the vote, apply for federal benefits, enter federal institutions that don’t require identification or receive medical care.

 

@cnsmaryland The DHS had extended the deadline for you to get a #RealID to May 7, 2025. #newstok #tsa ♬ original sound – Sierra 〽️