California DMV Urges Swift REAL ID Application to Streamline Travel

With over 16.6 million Californians already in possession of a REAL ID, an increase of 147,642 from the previous month, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is actively encouraging Pasadena residents to apply for their REAL ID without delay. As November ushers in the autumn season and the year’s busiest travel period, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.

As of Nov. 1, the total number of REAL ID cardholders has reached 16,624,827, showcasing a steady increase from 16,477,185 reported on last Sept. 1, the DMV said.

The DMV says there’s no need to wait until the federal enforcement date of May 7, 2025, when a REAL ID or other federally approved document will be mandatory for domestic flights within the United States and access to secure federal facilities. Applying for a REAL ID now can alleviate future concerns.

“With a REAL ID in hand, you will more easily be able to visit family and friends across the country,” DMV Director Steve Gordon said in a statement. “And that’s something to be thankful for.”

To apply for a REAL ID, Pasadena residents should visit www.REALID.dmv.ca.gov. The application process has been streamlined for convenience. Applicants can complete the online application and upload the necessary documents. Following this, a visit to a DMV office is required to finalize the application.

The documents required for application include proof of identity, which may be one original or certified document, such as a valid passport or birth certificate; two proofs of California residency, which should be two paper documents, such as utility bills and bank statements; and your social security number.

In case the name on the proof of identity differs from the name on other documents, legal name change documents, like a marriage certificate or adoption papers, will be required.

A complete list of acceptable documents and a link to the online application can be found at www.REALID.dmv.ca.gov.

By embracing digital services, the DMV is making it easy for customers to apply for the REAL ID. Many DMV tasks no longer require an office visit, and customers can utilize online services and other service channels for various transactions, including eligible driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals.

Customers can also take advantage of the Service Advisor on the DMV website, https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/?s=, to explore their options for completing DMV-related tasks.

For those interested in paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, the process is straightforward. Customers can sign in or create a secure online account at www.dmv.ca.gov and then opt in, ensuring a more efficient and hassle-free experience with the DMV.