’Twas the beginning of December and parents were in fear of what to get the kids for the holidays this year. Dad looked at mom and said with a skip, “What if we took the kids on a fantastic trip?” But the question remained, where to go and what to see, when they realized before they went anywhere, they should get a REAL ID.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles hopes you make getting a REAL ID part of your holiday story this year. Beginning May 3, 2023, just five months from now, 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 needed to fly the family to their favorite amusement parks throughout the country.

“You aren’t going to find a REAL ID in your stocking and Santa can’t leave one under the tree,” said DMV director Steve Gordon. “However, if you plan on taking the family on a flight to a fun-filled vacation spot or to the family reunion, don’t delay. Sign up to get started.”

Start your application 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.