REAL ID Holders in California Soar to 16.9 Million, DMV Encourages Pasadenans to Apply

[Photo credit: California Department of Motor Vehicles]

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has reported a significant increase in the number of REAL ID holders in the state. As of January 1, 2024, nearly 16.9 million Californians have obtained a REAL ID, marking an increase of over 120,000 from the previous month.

DMV Director Steve Gordon encourages Pasadenans to start the new year by obtaining their REAL ID.

“Resolving to get your REAL ID is one of the easiest goals you can set for 2024,” Gordon said. “You can get a REAL ID in a matter of minutes.”

To apply for a REAL ID, residents are advised to visit REALID.dmv.ca.gov, fill out the online application, and upload the necessary documents. The process requires a visit to a DMV office to present the uploaded documents and complete the application, which should take approximately 15 minutes.

The documents required for the application include proof of identity, proofs of California residency, and Social Security number. A complete list of acceptable documents and a link to the online application can be found on the DMV’s REAL ID website.

The DMV emphasizes that there is no need to wait for the federal enforcement date of May 7, 2025, which will require a REAL ID or other federally approved document to board domestic flights and access secure federal facilities.

Historically, the total number of REAL ID card holders as of Jan. 1, 2023, was 14.9 million. This indicates a substantial increase in the number of cardholders over the past year.

In addition to the REAL ID initiative, the DMV has been expanding its digital services. Most DMV tasks do not require an office visit, and customers are encouraged to use online services and other service channels to complete transactions, including eligible driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Customers can also use the Service Advisor on the DMV website to learn their options to complete DMV tasks.

For paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, customers are advised to sign in or create a secure online account at www.dmv.ca.gov.