California DMV Advises Passport Holders on Real ID Delays

Categories: California Business NewsCalifornia News

Extended hours for Real ID applications at select DMV offices in California.

News Summary

As California approaches the Real ID deadline of May 7, 2025, the DMV advises passport holders to consider delaying their Real ID applications to avoid long wait times. With an increase in applicants, select DMV offices are extending hours for Real ID applications. Residents are urged to make appointments and prepare necessary documents to streamline the process, especially as only 55% of eligible Californians have obtained their Real ID.

California Residents: Real ID Delays for Passport Holders!

Hey there, California! Are you planning on flying in the near future? If you hold a valid U.S. passport, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has a little advice for you—consider putting that Real ID application on hold for a bit. With the important deadline of May 7, 2025, swiftly approaching, you don’t want to rush and end up waiting in long lines!

What’s the Deal with Real ID?

Starting on May 7, 2025, new rules will take effect at U.S. airports. From that date onward, simply having a standard driver’s license will not cut it anymore for airport security checks. Instead, travelers will need either a Real ID or a valid passport to board their flights.

If you already have that shiny blue passport, or if you aren’t planning any domestic travels in the near future, it seems like waiting for a bit might be your best option. The DMV Director has indicated that you’ll save on stress and possibly time by not rushing into getting your Real ID if you already have a passport. Why not take advantage of what you’ve got?

Long Lines, Extended Hours!

As the countdown to the May deadline gains momentum, the DMV has been reporting some serious traffic at their offices. Long wait times have become the norm, which can be a headache if you’re busy with daily life. To help manage the influx of applicants, select DMV offices have decided to step it up with extended hours. Mark your calendars—on Saturday, May 3, certain Bay Area DMV offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a great chance to grab that Real ID without interrupting your weekday schedule!

But wait, there’s more! From now until June 27, some locations will open one hour earlier at 7 a.m. on weekdays (Monday to Friday, excluding Wednesday) specifically for Real ID applications. Talk about convenience!

What You Need to Do

Before you rush out the door, remember that you’ll need an appointment to take advantage of the extended hours. These special times are strictly for those applying for their Real ID. The first step is to start your application online at the DMV’s website. Make sure you have your identity and proof-of-address documents ready to show during your visit to the DMV office.

Once you complete the online portion, you’ll breeze through your office visit in about 15 minutes, according to the DMV. You can even check to see if there’s something you can handle online, allowing you to skip the trip altogether if you don’t need a Real ID!

Real ID Compliance and What’s Next

As of January 1, over 18.5 million Californians have obtained their Real ID—good for them! However, it’s important to note that California’s compliance rate stands around 55%. With nearly 35 million residents eligible for some form of identification, there’s still a considerable amount of folks who need to hop on the Real ID train.

That said, there’s no extension coming from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) when the deadline rolls around. So, if you or someone you know is not ready by then, be prepared for possible delays and extra screening at security checkpoints. Travelers who don’t have an accepted form of identification may even find themselves unable to enter security areas!

Lasting Impact

The Real ID Act was created to enhance national security following the events of 9/11, meaning that its introduction significantly raised the standards for verification of identification across the board. As we gear up for the upcoming deadline, keep in mind what a Real ID represents and how it can affect your travels.

So if you’ve got a passport, take a deep breath and consider waiting before applying for your Real ID. The more time you give yourself, the less rushing you’ll face when it’s finally time to hit the skies!