California DMV waiving REAL ID fees for residents who got new licenses, IDs during pandemic
LOS ANGELES - The California Department of Motor Vehices is waiving the fees for residents who got their driver's licenses or identification cards during the pandemic, allowing them to upgrade to a REAL ID at no additional charge.
Californians must go into a DMV office in person to get a REAL ID.
Beginning May 3, 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require a valid passport or other federally approved document, like a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card, to board flights within the United States and access secure federal facilities and military bases.
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"We don’t want Californians to pay the price for not getting a REAL ID during the pandemic," said DMV Director Steve Gordon. "While the federal government has extended the enforcement date for a REAL ID, there is no need to procrastinate. If you act now, you can take advantage of this offer and upgrade to a REAL ID for free."
The DMV estimates around 5.7 million driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL IDs will be issued between March 2020 and July 2021.
SUGGESTED: Southern California woman's new ID has photo of her wearing a mask
A fee is paid when a resident applies for a new license or license renewal. That fee will be waived for the customers who received a non-REAL ID during the pandemic if they upgrade now at dmv.ca.gov/realidupgrade.
To apply for a REAL ID, an applicant must provide a valid Social Security number, proof of identity and two proofs of California residency. A list of qualifying documents and other helpful information can be found at REALID.dmv.ca.gov.