If you’ve been hearing a lot about the REAL ID lately, you might be wondering, when do you need a REAL ID to fly in California? The REAL ID is part of a federal law that affects air travel within the United States, including flights out of California. Many people are unsure about when they’ll need one and how to get it.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the REAL ID in California, including when it becomes mandatory, how to apply for it, and what documents you’ll need to get it.
When Do You Need a REAL ID to Fly in California?
The deadline for needing a REAL ID to fly in California is May 7, 2025. Starting on this date, anyone who wants to fly domestically within the United States will need to show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, in order to board a flight. This applies to all flights leaving from California airports, whether you’re traveling to another state or staying within the state.
If you don’t have a REAL ID by May 7, 2025, you won’t be able to use your regular California driver’s license or ID card to get through airport security. Instead, you’ll need to present a different form of federally accepted identification, such as a U.S. passport or a military ID.
So, if you’re asking when do you need a REAL ID to fly in California, mark May 7, 2025 on your calendar as the official deadline.
What Is a REAL ID?
Before we answer when do you need a REAL ID to fly in California, let’s explain what a REAL ID actually is. The REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification that meets security standards set by the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005. The act was introduced to increase security after the 9/11 attacks, with the goal of making identification documents more secure.
In California, the REAL ID looks similar to a regular driver’s license or ID card, but it has a special marking—a golden bear with a star in the upper right corner—that indicates it is REAL ID-compliant. Without this symbol, your California driver’s license or ID won’t be accepted for certain purposes, including domestic air travel, once the REAL ID law goes into full effect.
Why Do You Need a REAL ID to Fly?
You might be wondering, why do you need a REAL ID to fly in California? The REAL ID Act was created to improve the security of identification documents, making it harder for people to use fake IDs for air travel and other federal purposes. The act sets strict requirements for how states issue IDs, ensuring that the identification is more secure and harder to tamper with.
The goal is to enhance national security and prevent identity fraud. By requiring a REAL ID or other secure identification to board domestic flights, the federal government hopes to reduce the risks of using fraudulent documents for air travel.
How to Get a REAL ID in California
Now that you know when you need a REAL ID to fly in California, let’s talk about how to get one. The process for applying for a REAL ID in California is straightforward, but it does require you to provide certain documents. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your REAL ID:
1. Gather the Required Documents
To get a REAL ID in California, you’ll need to bring specific documents with you to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). These documents are used to verify your identity, residency, and legal status in the United States. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Proof of Identity:
You’ll need to provide a document that proves your identity, such as a valid U.S. passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate, or a permanent resident card. - Proof of Social Security Number:
You’ll need to bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your full Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or a pay stub. - Proof of California Residency:
You must show two documents that prove you live in California. These can include a utility bill, rental agreement, bank statement, or mortgage statement with your name and address on it. - Name Change Documentation (if applicable):
If your current legal name is different from the name on your identity document (due to marriage, divorce, etc.), you’ll need to provide legal documentation showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
2. Complete the Online Application
Before heading to the DMV, you can save time by completing the REAL ID application online. The California DMV offers an online portal where you can fill out your application, upload your documents, and make an appointment for your in-person visit. Completing this step online helps streamline the process when you arrive at the DMV.
3. Visit the DMV in Person
After you’ve gathered your documents and completed the online application, you’ll need to visit a DMV office in person to finalize your REAL ID application. Make sure to bring all the necessary documents with you. During your visit, a DMV employee will verify your documents, take your photo, and process your application.
4. Pay the Fee
The cost of getting a REAL ID is the same as renewing your driver’s license or ID card. As of 2024, the fee is approximately $38 for a driver’s license and $33 for a state ID card. Be sure to check the DMV website for the most up-to-date fees.
5. Wait for Your REAL ID to Arrive
Once your application is processed, your new REAL ID will be mailed to you. It usually takes about 2-4 weeks for the DMV to issue your new ID, so plan ahead if you have upcoming travel plans.
What Happens If You Don’t Get a REAL ID?
If you don’t get a REAL ID by the May 7, 2025 deadline, you can still fly within the U.S., but you’ll need to use another form of federally accepted identification. Acceptable alternatives include:
- A valid U.S. passport
- A passport card
- A military ID
- A permanent resident card (Green Card)
- A federally recognized tribal ID
If you don’t have any of these documents and you try to board a domestic flight with a regular driver’s license or ID card after the deadline, you won’t be allowed to pass through airport security.
While a REAL ID isn’t the only option for flying, it’s one of the easiest to get if you’re already planning to renew your driver’s license or ID card. Having a REAL ID will ensure that you’re covered for air travel and other federal purposes, such as entering military bases or visiting federal facilities.
Do Children Need a REAL ID to Fly?
If you’re traveling with children, you may be wondering if they need a REAL ID to fly. The good news is that children under the age of 18 do not need a REAL ID or any other form of identification when flying domestically with an adult. However, the adult they are traveling with will need to have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID by May 7, 2025.
For international travel, children will still need a valid passport, regardless of the destination.
Can You Use a Passport Instead of a REAL ID?
Yes, you can use a passport instead of a REAL ID for domestic air travel. If you already have a valid U.S. passport, you do not need to get a REAL ID to fly within the United States. A passport is a federally accepted form of identification and will allow you to pass through airport security without any issues.
However, if you prefer not to carry your passport for domestic flights, getting a REAL ID is a convenient alternative. It’s up to you whether you want to use a passport or get a REAL ID, but either option will be required for air travel starting on May 7, 2025.
Conclusion
So, when do you need a REAL ID to fly in California? Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or another federally accepted form of identification to board domestic flights in the U.S., including flights out of California. If you haven’t already applied for your REAL ID, now is the time to gather the required documents and schedule your appointment at the DMV.
While you can use a passport or other forms of ID to fly, getting a REAL ID is a convenient option for most travelers. With the right preparation, you can ensure that you’re ready for the upcoming changes and can travel smoothly without any delays.
FAQs
When do you need a REAL ID to fly in California?
You will need a REAL ID to fly in California starting May 7, 2025.
Can I use a passport instead of a REAL ID to fly?
Yes, a valid U.S. passport is an acceptable alternative to a REAL ID for domestic flights.
What documents do I need to get a REAL ID in California?
You’ll need proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents proving your California residency.
Do children need a REAL ID to fly domestically?
No, children under 18 do not need a REAL ID to fly domestically when traveling with an adult.
How much does it cost to get a REAL ID in California?
The fee for a REAL ID is the same as renewing your driver’s license, which is approximately $38 as of 2024.
