What to know about the Real ID enforcement in California
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Reminders to get a Real ID have been posted in airports, including SAN. Photo: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
If you're flying in the next few days or weeks, be prepared for potential long lines at the airport as TSA starts taking a closer look at IDs.
Driving the news: Wednesday is the first day a Real ID compliant license — or another acceptable document — is needed to board a commercial aircraft in the U.S.
- After years of delays, the May 7 enforcement deadline means travelers without one could face additional screenings or not be allowed through security.
- It's also needed when visiting military bases and secure federal buildings like courthouses.
State of play: A Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal security standards.
- In California, they are denoted by a yellow bear with a star in the top right corner.
- About 55% of current issued IDs are already compliant, according to the California DMV.
Yes, but: There's no need to panic if you have a current U.S. passport, permanent resident card, military ID or DHS trusted traveler cards — think Global Entry or SENTRI. Those will be accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic travel.
- Californians with a valid passport can wait until their driver's license is up for renewal.
Zoom in: To get a California Real ID, make an appointment with the DMV, complete the online application and upload documents to prove your identity and residency.
- Bring your confirmation code and those documents, which could include a passport, birth certificate, utility bill and bank statement, to your appointment.
Some local DMV offices are opening an hour early for REAL ID appointments through June 27, including in Clairemont, San Marcos, El Cajon and Poway.
- The Poway DMV is also open exclusively for these appointments on Saturday, May 10.
Between the lines: With more than 40,000 passengers departing daily, the San Diego International Airport is anticipating delays as enforcement starts and advises travelers to arrive early.
- SAN will have extra staff on duty in the terminals Wednesday to help address traveler concerns.