News Summary
As California approaches the Real ID deadline of May 7, 2025, the DMV advises passport holders to consider delaying their Real ID applications to avoid long wait times. With an increase in applicants, select DMV offices are extending hours for Real ID applications. Residents are urged to make appointments and prepare necessary documents to streamline the process, especially as only 55% of eligible Californians have obtained their Real ID.
California Residents: Real ID Delays for Passport Holders!
Hey there, California! Are you planning on flying in the near future? If you hold a valid U.S. passport, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has a little advice for you—consider putting that Real ID application on hold for a bit. With the important deadline of May 7, 2025, swiftly approaching, you don’t want to rush and end up waiting in long lines!
What’s the Deal with Real ID?
Starting on May 7, 2025, new rules will take effect at U.S. airports. From that date onward, simply having a standard driver’s license will not cut it anymore for airport security checks. Instead, travelers will need either a Real ID or a valid passport to board their flights.
If you already have that shiny blue passport, or if you aren’t planning any domestic travels in the near future, it seems like waiting for a bit might be your best option. The DMV Director has indicated that you’ll save on stress and possibly time by not rushing into getting your Real ID if you already have a passport. Why not take advantage of what you’ve got?
Long Lines, Extended Hours!
As the countdown to the May deadline gains momentum, the DMV has been reporting some serious traffic at their offices. Long wait times have become the norm, which can be a headache if you’re busy with daily life. To help manage the influx of applicants, select DMV offices have decided to step it up with extended hours. Mark your calendars—on Saturday, May 3, certain Bay Area DMV offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a great chance to grab that Real ID without interrupting your weekday schedule!
But wait, there’s more! From now until June 27, some locations will open one hour earlier at 7 a.m. on weekdays (Monday to Friday, excluding Wednesday) specifically for Real ID applications. Talk about convenience!
What You Need to Do
Before you rush out the door, remember that you’ll need an appointment to take advantage of the extended hours. These special times are strictly for those applying for their Real ID. The first step is to start your application online at the DMV’s website. Make sure you have your identity and proof-of-address documents ready to show during your visit to the DMV office.
Once you complete the online portion, you’ll breeze through your office visit in about 15 minutes, according to the DMV. You can even check to see if there’s something you can handle online, allowing you to skip the trip altogether if you don’t need a Real ID!
Real ID Compliance and What’s Next
As of January 1, over 18.5 million Californians have obtained their Real ID—good for them! However, it’s important to note that California’s compliance rate stands around 55%. With nearly 35 million residents eligible for some form of identification, there’s still a considerable amount of folks who need to hop on the Real ID train.
That said, there’s no extension coming from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) when the deadline rolls around. So, if you or someone you know is not ready by then, be prepared for possible delays and extra screening at security checkpoints. Travelers who don’t have an accepted form of identification may even find themselves unable to enter security areas!
Lasting Impact
The Real ID Act was created to enhance national security following the events of 9/11, meaning that its introduction significantly raised the standards for verification of identification across the board. As we gear up for the upcoming deadline, keep in mind what a Real ID represents and how it can affect your travels.
So if you’ve got a passport, take a deep breath and consider waiting before applying for your Real ID. The more time you give yourself, the less rushing you’ll face when it’s finally time to hit the skies!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Mercury News: California DMV Delay for Real ID
- Wikipedia: Real ID Act
- New York Times: Real ID Deadline – What to Know
- Google Search: Real ID Deadline 2025
- Los Angeles Times: What to Do If You Don’t Get Your Real ID
- Encyclopedia Britannica: U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- ABC10: Fly Without Real ID
- Google News: California Real ID News
- NBC Bay Area: Real ID Deadline Approaching
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
