As the REAL ID deadline looms, the Department of Motor Vehicles is taking steps to accommodate Southern California residents who still need to update their identification cards. Per the reports from CBS News Los Angeles and other outlets, starting May 7, individuals over 18 will be required to present a REAL ID, or other federally approved ID like a passport, to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. To facilitate this, select DMV locations will open at 7:00 a.m., an hour early on weekdays, specifically for REAL ID processing.
The DMV has listed 18 offices across the state that will offer these extended hours, according to KTLA, including locations in Thousand Oaks, Van Nuys, and Glendale. The additional early hours are a direct response to help curb the expected influx of applicants as the deadline nears. For those without a valid U.S. passport, the REAL ID will soon become a necessity for domestic air travel, a fact which has sparked increased urgency amongst Californians.
Completing most of the REAL ID application online before showing up at the DMV is highly recommended. ABC7 noted that this preparation can streamline the in-office process, which, on average, should only take about 15 minutes. The application requires documentation proving identity, social security number, and California residency. Also looming is the $45 fee the DMV charges for issuing a REAL ID.
For those who are not planning to travel soon or enter federal facilities, the DMV suggests obtaining the new ID during their usual driver's license or ID renewal cycle, provided they have another federally approved document.
