To apply for a California REAL ID, bring one qualifying identity document, two different printed residency documents, and any required legal name-change records. You must also provide your Social Security number on the application, although exceptions may apply. A REAL ID is an optional California driver's license or identification card that meets federal requirements for uses such as domestic airport security. First-time applicants must complete the process at a DMV office.
Table of Contents
- Choose one identity document
- Bring proof if your name changed
- Select two California residency documents
- Complete the application and office visit
- Decide whether you need a REAL ID
Choose one identity document
your identity document must show your date of birth and true full legal name. The California DMV REAL ID checklist lists examples that include: Bring the original document or a certified copy.
The DMV does not accept an abbreviated or abstract U.S. birth certificate for a REAL ID application.
- A valid U.S. passport
- A certified U.S. birth certificate
- A Permanent Resident Card
- A qualifying foreign passport with an I-94 record
Bring proof if your name changed
The name on your identity document must connect to your current legal name. If the names differ, bring records documenting each applicable change.
Acceptable evidence may include a marriage certificate, adoption record, domestic-partnership record, or a court document showing a dissolution or legal name change. For example, someone whose birth certificate shows a former surname should bring the record that establishes the current surname.
Select two California residency documents
Bring two different printed documents showing your first and last name. Both must display the same mailing address entered on your REAL ID application. Acceptable examples include utility or cell-phone bills, bank or credit-card records, insurance documents, mortgage bills, leases, vehicle registrations, tax returns, and government-agency documents. The DMV's checklist requires two separate forms of residency evidence, so two copies of one bill would not satisfy that requirement.
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If you use a P.O. Box, one residency document must show both the P.O. Box and your physical residence address. The second document may show only the P.O. Box.
Complete the application and office visit
Enter your Social Security number on the application unless an exception applies. The California DMV's REAL ID guidance says applicants must provide the number but recognizes possible exceptions. First-time REAL ID applicants must visit a DMV office in person.
You may upload documents online beforehand, but uploading does not replace the office visit. If you upload documents, bring the originals and your confirmation code to the appointment. The DMV application page says the online step can save time, not eliminate the document check.
Decide whether you need a REAL ID
California does not require residents to obtain a REAL ID. Since May 7, 2025, however, a noncompliant California license or ID cannot be used alone at airport security for domestic flights. A passport or another form of identification accepted by the Transportation Security Administration remains an alternative.
If you already plan to use one of those documents when flying, you may decide that a REAL ID is unnecessary. People applying for or renewing an AB 60 driver's license are not eligible for a REAL ID. Citizens, permanent residents, and some temporary-status holders may qualify if they can document current legal presence in the United States.
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