DMV to Offer REAL ID Services at Select SoCal Automobile Club Locations

Automobile Club of Southern California members will soon be able to obtain REAL IDs at 19 Southland locations under a pilot program in partnership with the DMV set to roll out by the end of the month.

AAA offices in Arcadia and Alhambra are among those taking part in the program, the DMV said in a written statement.

Prior to obtaining a REAL ID at the participating AAA offices, members will first need to fill out an application online at REALID.dmv.ca.gov, upload required documents, pay any required fees and schedule an appointment.

“Members must show their confirmation code and required documents to the DMV representative at the Auto Club office, who will use a mobile tablet to capture their fingerprint, snap a photograph, and allow for an electronic signature to complete the application process,” according to the statement.

The new option is meant to make the process more efficient for the motoring public, DMV Director Steve Gordon said.

“The DMV continues to streamline its processes and incorporate technology to become more mobile and better serve its customers through more convenient service options,” Gordon said. “We hope our partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California will prompt its members to get their REAL ID now and not wait until the last minute.”

The program is scheduled to run through December.

Effective May 3, 2023 a valid passport or federally approved document, such as a REAL ID, will be required to board flights within the U.S., as well as to enter secure federal facilities and military bases.

The other 17 participating AAA offices are Costa Mesa, Long Beach, Redlands, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Riverside, Camarillo, Inglewood-Ladera, Manhattan Beach, San Diego-Clairemont, Chatsworth, Laguna Hills, Northridge, Santa Barbara, Chino, La Quinta Rancho and Palos Verdes, according to the DMV.