Getting a REAL ID is the Key Ingredient to Your Thanksgiving Recipe

Contact: Office of Public Affairs
2415 First Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 657–6437 | dmvpublicaffairs@dmv.ca.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2022

Sacramento – If you don’t have your REAL ID yet, cross it off your to-do list on your way to pick up the sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce and the rest of your Thanksgiving fixings. Applying for one takes less time than preheating the oven to cook your juiciest turkey.

Beginning May 3, 2023, you will need a REAL ID or another federally approved form of identification to fly within the United States and enter secure federal facilities. If you get yours now, it will be one less thing on your mind while you perfect your mashed potatoes or bake that famous pumpkin pie.

“Whether you are running around gathering ingredients to host this year’s Thanksgiving dinner or preparing for your first Thanksgiving Day run, add a pit stop at our place. Complete your REAL ID application on your way home from the grocery store,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “Start the application online, upload your documents, visit our office and you’ll be on your way. The process is quick and easy, like my favorite dessert recipe.”

Get started at REALID.dmv.ca.gov. You will need to provide one proof of identity, two separate proofs of California residency, and your Social Security number. You are encouraged to use the REAL ID checklist to find out the types of documents you can submit. Once completed, bring your original uploaded documents and a copy of the confirmation page to your office appointment, where you will have your documents verified and take a photo for your new REAL ID.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require individuals under the age of 18 to provide identification when traveling within the U.S. However, the companion will need to show a federally approved form of identification, such as a REAL ID.

Try Online First

Most DMV tasks do not require an office visit. The DMV encourages customers to use its online services and other service channels to complete transactions, including vehicle registration renewals. Customers can also use the Service Advisor on the DMV website to learn their options to complete DMV business.

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