Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I heard that the REAL ID Act goes into effect on May 8 of this year. What does that mean to me?
A: There will be no changes implemented in May 2008. DMV has asked for an extension thru 2009.

Q: Is my driver’s license still accepted on airlines and in federal buildings?
A: Yes, the California driver’s license or identification card you possess will be honored by Transportation Security Administration at airports and for entering federal buildings.

Q: Will the look of California’s Driver’s License be any different after May 8?
A: There are no immediate changes anticipated on California Driver’s Licenses and Identification cards.

Q: Should I come into a DMV Field Office much earlier than my license renewal date?
A: No, continue to conduct business with DMV as you normally would. If you are required to renew in person, do so in the usual manner. If you are eligible to renew online, take advantage of renewing over the Internet at www.dmv.ca.gov or by mail because it saves time for you!

Q: How will this affect my teen son or daughter applying for a first time driver’s license?
A: The requirements for the provisional driver’s license will not change. Your son or daughter would go through the same process as before (bringing in a valid birth certificate and social security card, etc.)

Q: Will getting a license cost me more money?
A: No, not at this point.

Q: Will I still be able to renew a license and do business online?
A: Absolutely! – In fact, we encourage you to conduct business with the DMV by renewing your registration or your driver license, if eligible, online when it is convenient for you. You can also file a change of address, notice of release of liability, or pay a number of fees online.

Q: Will REAL ID mean longer lines at the DMV?
A: No. The extension will allow DMV additional time to complete a thorough review of the final regulations before the State makes a policy decision on REAL ID. The extension will have the potential to delay REAL ID compliance up through December 2009.

Q: I heard that the REAL ID card will contain an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip, is this true?
A: No. The REAL ID card would not include an RFID chip. The RFID chip is part of the EDL (Enhanced Driver License) or WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) program. REAL ID Act has different requirements that were recently published in the final federal regulations. California has not made a decision to adopt the REAL ID Act.