The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is now offering new driver’s licenses or ID cards that comply with the REAL ID Act.
In 2005, the Congress passed the REAL ID Act in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The law set security standards for state driver’s licenses and ID cards acceptable for official purposes. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) administers the implementation of the law.
Starting on October 1, 2020, the federal government will require REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses or ID cards to pass a TSA checkpoint at airports, visit military bases or other secure federal buildings.
According to the California DMV, people can still use their current driver’s licenses or ID cards to board an airplane, enter military bases, and most federal facilities until 2020.
In addition, the agency clarified that applying for a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID card is optional. People can also use their valid U.S. Passport, Passport Card, Permanent Resident Card, military ID or other federally approved identification to board an airplane and access secured federal facilities.
