How do I get a California REAL ID without going to the DMV?

Here's how you do that:
  1. Assemble your documents: One identity document with your first, middle and last name and your birthdate. ...
  2. Go to the DMV Real ID webpage to fill out an online application and upload images of your documents. ...
  3. Once your documents are uploaded, you'll get a confirmation number.


Can California REAL ID be done online?

CA ID Card Application. People of any age may apply for a CA ID card or driver's license online, at a local field office, or at one of several federal facilities.

How long does it take to get a REAL ID in California 2022?

You will receive your new ID card via mail within 3-4 weeks. If you have not received your new ID card after 60 days, call us at 1-800-777-0133 to check the status.


Do you have to go in person to get a REAL ID in California?

Can I get a REAL ID by renewing my current driver's license or identification card by mail or online? No. Since a REAL ID is a form of federal identification, you must visit a DMV office in person when applying for a REAL ID for the first time.

How do I convert my CA drivers license to REAL ID?

REAL ID
  1. Gather your documents with help from the checklist. Use DMV's interactive REAL ID document checklist to gather all of the documentation you will need to apply for your REAL ID. ...
  2. Complete the application online and upload your documents. Be sure to save your confirmation code.
  3. Visit a DMV office.


REAL ID Step by Step 2025



How much is a REAL ID in California 2022?

REAL ID and federal non-compliant cards are both valid forms of identification. All driver licenses, including REAL ID driver licenses, cost $35 and ID cards cost $30. For more information about REAL ID, visit REALID.dmv.ca.gov.

What documents are needed for REAL ID in California?

REAL ID Checklist
  • Valid U.S. passport or passport card (Preferred)
  • Original or Certified copy of U.S birth certificate (issued by a city, county, or state vital statistics office). ...
  • Valid Permanent Resident Card.
  • Foreign passport with valid U.S. Visa and approved I-94 form.


Can I get a California ID same day?

California DMV Express Experience

To take advantage of the DMV Same Day / Express Service Visit, go to the CA DMV REAL ID page to apply for a REAL ID driver's license (DL) for the first time online: https://realid.dmv.ca.gov/.


Can I get a REAL ID at AAA in California?

REALID.dmv.ca.gov - Fill out the online application, upload documents, and if eligible, make your appointment to visit a AAA branch to complete the REAL ID process.

Does California REAL ID require Social Security card?

Verification Documents

The only documents acceptable for visual verification of your SSN for original REAL ID applications are originals of the following: A social security card. A W-2 form.

Do I need a CA REAL ID to fly in 2022?

The new deadline for REAL ID enforcement is May 7, 2025. Read the announcement. Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.


How can I get a California ID fast?

Visit your local California DMV.

Complete a Driver License or Identification Card Application (Form DL 44). Provide proofs of your ID, SSN, birth date, and residency. Pay the $29 identification card fee. For more details on how to get a California ID card, please see below.

How much is a California REAL ID?

You can also fill out the appropriate forms on the DMV website ahead of your appointment. Then it's a $35 fee for Real ID driver's licenses, or just $30 for a normal Real ID. Then they take your picture, and that's all. California Real IDs are denoted by a golden bear and a star in the top right corner of the card.

How long does it take to verify documents for REAL ID California Online?

While most documents are verified the same day, documents submitted evenings, weekends or holidays may take longer.


What is the difference between CA ID and REAL ID?

What's the difference between my old ID and a REAL ID? The preexisting California drivers licenses and identification cards no longer meet federal standards. The new, REAL ID cards are supposed to be more secure and meet new, federal standards.

Can I get a California ID without proof of residency?

Don't forget, you need two different proofs of California residency when you apply for your REAL ID driver license or identification card. Learn more about the document options at REALID.dmv.ca.gov.

Is California REAL ID same as enhanced license?

The main difference between a Real ID and an Enhanced ID is that an Enhanced ID can be used for entering the US by land and sea without a passport. The Enhanced ID also costs $30 more than a Real ID.


Can you walk in to get a California ID?

Currently, only four offices accept walk-ins as well as appointments; the rest are by appointment only. You can make an appointment online or by calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. Fill out and submit a Driver License or Identification Card Application form (DL 44).

Can I get a REAL ID at a AAA location?

First, fill out an application online: Upload the required documents, pay the fee and schedule an appointment. Then, take those same required documents and your confirmation code to an AAA office.

Is CA REAL ID free for seniors?

You can apply for or renew your Senior Citizen ID card using the standard ID card application. Applying for, renewing, or replacing a Senior Citizen ID card is free of charge.


Do you need a birth certificate to get a California REAL ID?

Anyone interested in applying for a driver license/ID card with the REAL ID mark is required to visit a DMV field office in person and present specific documentation: Proof of identity (U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, permanent resident card, foreign passport with an approved form I-94.

What can be used as proof of residency California?

Examples of acceptable residency documents include: home utility bill (including cell phone), insurance documents, California title or registration for a vehicle or vessel, or record of a financial institution.

What is the deadline for California REAL ID?

The new May 7, 2025, deadline is one of numerous extensions since the law was originally set to take in effect in 2008. Year prior, California DMV offices received an influx of Real ID applications ahead of the deadline. .


Will California REAL ID replace passports?

Q: Do I need a passport if I have a REAL ID? If you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.

What ID can I get immediately?

Easiest valid IDs you can get to jumpstart your journey
  • POSTAL ID. ADVERTISEMENT. ...
  • NBI Clearance. The NBI Clearance is usually one of the primary requirements employers ask for before hiring, it's also a must-have when starting a business, or studying abroad. ...
  • SSS ID or UMID. ...
  • Passport.