What is the REAL ID?
The REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification required starting May 7, 2025. After the REAL ID deadline, travelers flying domestically must show either a REAL ID or another approved document, like a passport, to board a flight or enter secure federal facilities.
REAL IDs are issued by state DMVs and include a visible star in the top right corner of the license or ID card. If your license does not have that star, it will not be accepted for federal purposes after the REAL ID deadline.
Why was the REAL ID law created?
The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to increase national security standards for state-issued identification. It was one of the key recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to make it more difficult for individuals to obtain fraudulent IDs.
Who needs to meet the REAL ID deadline?
Anyone aged 18 or older who wants to board a domestic flight or access a federal building or military base must have a REAL ID-compliant license or an alternative approved document. The REAL ID deadline affects all U.S. states, but each state has its own DMV process to issue compliant IDs.
You do not need a REAL ID to:
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Drive a car
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Vote in elections
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Receive federal benefits like Social Security
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Visit hospitals or health services
What California drivers need to know
California residents must visit the DMV in person to obtain a REAL ID. You will need to provide:
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One proof of identity (such as a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate)
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One proof of Social Security number (such as a W-2 or Social Security card)
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Two proofs of California residency (like utility bills, mortgage statements, or lease agreements)
Visit the California DMV REAL ID page to schedule an appointment or check document requirements.
What Arizona drivers need to know
Arizona residents must also obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, called the “Travel ID,” from the Arizona Department of Transportation. You can apply at authorized MVD offices or third-party providers.
You will need:
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Proof of identity and date of birth (such as a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate)
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Proof of Social Security number
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Two documents proving Arizona residency
Visit the Arizona MVD Travel ID page for full instructions and to schedule your appointment before the REAL ID deadline.
What happens if you miss the REAL ID deadline?
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable ID by the REAL ID deadline of May 7, 2025, you will not be allowed to board domestic flights or enter secure federal buildings. You will need to use a valid passport or another TSA-approved document, which may be inconvenient for quick trips or last-minute travel.
The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to avoid long DMV wait times or appointment delays as the deadline approaches.
Why the REAL ID deadline matters for accident victims and legal clients
At Fielding Law, we know that many of our clients rely on air travel to visit family, attend court proceedings, or seek medical care. Missing the REAL ID deadline can interrupt those essential activities. We encourage our clients in California and Arizona to meet this requirement early to avoid delays in travel or legal matters.
Why Hire Fielding Law
At Fielding Law, we believe legal service means more than just filing paperwork. We help clients stay informed and prepared, including staying ahead of changes like the REAL ID deadline. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in a car accident, slip and fall, dog bite, or another type of personal injury, our team is here to support you with empathy, professionalism, and a proven track record of success.
Call 833.88.SHARK or reach out to Fielding Law today for a free consultation.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.
