Can I get CA Real ID online to avoid lines at the DMV? Renew my driver’s license?
Time is running out to get a California Real ID.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will soon require people to have a federally approved document — such as a passport or a Real ID driver’s license — on hand for domestic plane travel.
The DMV’s 172 field offices have experienced a surge in demand ahead of the Real ID deadline, leading to long lines and lengthy waits for services.
In response, the state agency is encouraging California residents to take advantage of its online services.
Can you apply online to get a Real ID? Do you have to make an in-person appointment at the DMV?
Here’s what you need to know:
When does California Real ID requirement start?
California’s Real ID requirement will be enforced beginning on Wednesday, May 7.
You’ll need the special state-issued identification card to board domestic airplane flights and access federal facilities and nuclear power plants, the Department of Homeland Security said on its website.
The law applies to everyone age 18 years or older, according to the federal agency.
How do I apply for a Real ID?
You need to complete these steps to get a California Real ID from the DMV, according to the state road agency’s website:
▪ Submit a document that confirms your identity, such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate. Your current full name must match the name listed on the identity document.
▪ Provide two printed documents that prove your residence within the state. For example, you can use a utility bill, insurance documents, phone bill or bank statement to confirm your mailing address.
▪ Complete the online Real ID application, a process that typically takes less than 10 minutes. You’ll need your name, address, birth date and Social Security number.
▪ To complete the process, visit a California DMV office in person. Bring your documents establishing your identity and residence, plus your Real ID application code, and pay a $35 fee.
How do I make an appointment at DMV? When are offices open?
To avoid long lines, you can reserve a DMV appointment online ahead of time.
Most DMV offices are open 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, closing on weekends and holidays.
The DMV is temporarily extending its hours of operation at select locations to help out Real ID applicants.
Starting April 14, doors began opening an hour early at a total of 18 DMV locations in California, according to an agency news release.
At these offices, all appointments from 7 to 8 a.m. Monday through Friday will be reserved for Real ID applicants. The extended hours will be available through Tuesday, June 27.
In addition, 11 DMV locations across the state will open an extra day to accommodate those applying for Real IDs.
These offices will be open on Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., to “provide REAL ID processing by appointment only,” the DMV said, and “will not provide other DMV services.”
Can I renew my driver’s license via DMV website? Register my car?
The California Department of Motor Vehicles allows people to start or complete services online.
Here are some of the services available on the agency’s website:
- Driver’s license and ID renewals
- Vehicle registration
- Title transfer
- Commercial driver’s license renewal
- Sticker replacement
- Report an accident
- Change an address
- Order personal license plates
- Apply and renew a permanent disabled person parking placard
The DMV said it does not provide in-office services for certain tasks, including renewing your vehicle registration, driver’s license or ID card if no details have changed.
Those services must be completed online, at a DMV kiosk, with a DMV business partner or by mail, the agency said.
You can use the Service Advisor on the DMV website to learn your options to complete tasks.
To sign up for paperless vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices, create a secure online account at dmv.ca.gov..
Can I go to the DMV without an appointment?
Californians can still visit a DMV field office without an appointment, the DMV said, but can risk an extended wait.
How to check wait times at California DMV locations
You can check appointment and non-appointment wait times online at DMV offices at dmv.ca.org.
This story was originally published May 2, 2025 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Can I get CA Real ID online to avoid lines at the DMV? Renew my driver’s license?."
