The purpose of the written test is to examine your knowledge of the road and ensure all drivers possess the same information while traveling throughout the state. However, it is important to remember the California DMV is not out to trick you. Many student drivers underestimate the exam – over 44% of drivers fail their permit test on the first try. Get all the facts about REAL ID on the Real ID page of the California DMV website.Taking and passing the written test is the first step towards getting your driver’s license in the state of California. Either card still allows you to drive, apply for or receive federal benefits, enter federal facilities like post offices, visit hospitals and receive life-saving services. A federal non-compliant card will have “Federal Limits Apply” in that area. BOTH documents must show your first and last name with the same mailing address that is listed on your REAL ID application.Ī full list of accepted documents and an interactive checklist are available on the Real ID page of the California DMV website.Ī REAL ID issued in California will display a grizzly bear and star in the upper right corner. TWO DIFFERENT printed documents that show your California mailing address.Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 form, paystub with full SSN).Note: A name change document, such as a marriage certificate or court-filed adoption papers, is required if you legally changed your name. passport, permanent resident card, foreign passport with an approved form I-94. Applying for a REAL IDĪnyone interested in applying for a driver license/ID card with the REAL ID mark is required to visit a DMV field office in person and present specific documentation:

passport, to pass through airport security, as well as enter secure federal buildings and military facilities.

A person can use other federal compliant identification, such as a valid U.S. To get one of these cards, a person must apply at a California Department of Motor Vehicles office and provide federally mandated documentation. Do you need a REAL ID?īeginning May 7, 2025, passengers who want to continue to use their driver license or ID card to board a domestic flight will need to show a federal compliant REAL ID driver license or ID card with a special marking. The story below has been revised accordingly since its original publication in January 2019. 5, 2022 update: T he Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced its intent to extend the REAL ID full enforcement date by 24 months, from May 3, 2023, to May 7, 2025.

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