May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to reflect and acknowledge the many contributions and influences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Celebrating AAPI month reminds us of our rich history, providing us with the perfect opportunity to travel and visit family and friends, which may have been limited due to the pandemic.
With travel restrictions lifted, there is no better way to celebrate than to give yourself the gift of travel. In just one year, a federally accepted form of identification, such as a REAL ID, will be required for all domestic travel, so get ahead of the curve by getting your REAL ID today—it’s your most important carry-on!
Whether you are booking travel plans, visits to family and friends, or simply going on vacation—make sure you have a REAL ID now so you don’t have to worry about it later, reducing the stress of travel so you can concentrate on having fun.
Getting your REAL ID is as fast and easy as 1-2-3.
- Start your application online at dmv.ca.gov/realid.
- Upload your documents. You’ll need one identity document (ex: valid passport, original birth certificate) and two proofs of residency (ex: mortgage bill, employment document, home utility bill).
- Make an appointment online to finish the process at your local DMV office. Be sure to bring your uploaded original documents and entire confirmation page to your appointment!
By starting your application online, you’ll be in and out of the DMV quickly and ready to fly! Join the 13 million Californians who have already upgraded to a REAL ID and make your ID do more.
A REAL ID costs the same as a regular ID, but a REAL ID will take you places and allow you to get into secure federal buildings such as federal courthouses and military bases. Don’t wait until the May 3, 2023 enforcement date—apply for your REAL ID today and beat the rush. Apply for your CA REAL ID online by visiting dmv.ca.gov/realid.