If you're a frequent flier, you'll want to make sure your identification is federally compliant by Oct. 1, 2020.
Starting today, Monday, Jan. 22, California began issuing special identification cards for flying, both domestically and internationally.
The federal Real ID act of 2005 was passed in response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles [DMV], the federal government will require your driver license or ID card to be REAL ID compliant if you wish to use it as an ID to board an airplane or enter military bases and most federal facilities.
A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or another form of transportation safety administration approved identification will still be accepted to board an airplane.
For now, a California driver's license or identification card is still a valid form of ID to fly anywhere within the U.S. DMV officials also want the public to know that your current driver's license will still be valid, but you can't use it to fly after October 1, 2020.
If you're applying for a REAL ID, you need to provide:
- Proof of identity such as an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, employment authorization, permanent resident card, or foreign passport with an approved form 1-94.
- Proof of Social Security Number such as an SSN card, W-2, or paystub with full SSN.
- California residency document such as a utility bill, rental agreement, mortgage bill, or medical document.
- If your identity document is in a different name, you will need to provide a name change document such as a marriage license, divorce decree or court document.
The DMV suggests applying for a REAL ID card at the same time of your renewal so that you don't have to visit a field office before October 1, 2020.
According to a spokesman for the DMV, anyone applying for a REAL ID can also go to any of the 60 field offices across California, which will be open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, beginning Jan. 27, 2018.
Click here to find a site near you.