After almost two decades, several delays and a worldwide pandemic throwing a wrench into plans, REAL ID requirements will finally go into effect at U.S. airports next week.
Starting May 7, a REAL ID — or other verified forms of federal identification — will be needed to fly domestically throughout the country. The policy was first passed by then-President George W. Bush in 2005 in light of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2002.
For various reasons, including famously in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the requirement has been pushed back time-and-time again. But now, that May 7 deadline will stick.
In order to meet massive demands, select Department of Motor Vehicle locations in California are opening up on May 10, the first Saturday after the requirements begin, to help residents take care of their REAL ID.
The seven Southern California locations are:
- Fullerton (909 W. Valencia Drive)
- Glendale (1335 W. Glenoaks Blvd.)
- Riverside East (6425 Sycamore Canyon Blvd.)
- San Clemente (2727 Via Cascadita)
- Thousand Oaks (1810 E. Avenida De Los Arboles)
- West Covina (800 S. Glendora Ave.)
- Poway (13461 Community Road)
The four Northern California locations:
- Concord (2070 Diamond Blvd.)
- Oakland (5300 Claremont Ave.)
- Roseville (7200 Galilee Road)
- San Jose (111 W. Alma Ave.)
These openings are by appointment only. They’ll be open between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Appointments can be scheduled here.