Do You Have Your California REAL ID Yet?

January 18, 2020
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Craig Fischer
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Federal legislation that was passed nearly 15 years ago is set to impact the lives of many Americans early next fall. Perhaps you’ve heard of it — the REAL ID Act. If you were born in the Golden State, you may need to order a California birth certificate to get one of these new cards.

Many states have already began implementing the strict identification card standards. In California, DMVs across the state are busy making residents aware of the need for new IDs that comply with the act. One important requirement is valid identification in the form of a birth certificate or passport. Here’s what you should know.

The REAL ID Act of 2005

After 9/11, Americans and lawmakers became understandably focused on security standards and concerns. One area that received a great deal of attention was air travel. This eventually led to the passage of the REAL ID Act in 2005.

One focus of the Act was to raise the minimum standards of state-issued identification cards and drivers’ licenses for particular uses. Applicants must submit very specific documentation to receive a REAL ID in their state. Technology is also used to make ID forgery very difficult to nearly impossible

What Documents are Required for a REAL ID?

To receive a REAL ID in California, you need three pieces of documentation. They include the following:

An original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport or passport card, current permanent resident card, certificate of naturalization, or some other identity document approved by the REAL ID Act. If your name is now different than what appears on this document, you will need additional paperwork to affirm the name change; and
Your social security card, W-2, Paystub, SSA-1099 form, or Non-SSA-1099 form; and
Paper copies of a bank statement, utility bill, leasing contract, voter registration card, or other acceptable proof of residency in California. You need two different types of residency documents.

When Do You Need a REAL ID?

If you fly within the United States, your old non-REAL-ID or -license will no longer be accepted for travel purposes after October 1, 2020. Instead, you must provide either REAL ID-compliant identification, a global entry card, a passport, or a passport card at airport security checkpoints. This approved identification will also be necessary to enter military bases and other secure federal facilities.

Get Your REAL ID Before the Deadline

Make “be more proactive” one of your New Year’s resolutions for 2020. Start by getting your REAL ID. Gather all the required documentation — order a California birth certificate and a social security card if necessary. Then head down to your local California DMV to take care of this important task.