The number of Real IDs issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles is lagging behind projected demand. If you anticipate needing one, I advise you go to the DMV now because I expect the lines to worsen as we get closer to the summer months.
Beginning October 1st, the federal government is requiring passengers to have a Real ID to board a domestic flight without a passport. So far, only 7 million out of an estimated 16 million Californians who need one have gotten it. That means the DMV now has to process more than a million applications every month to issue the new identification cards in time.
While the Budget oversight hearings I've led held DMV accountable for various missteps and resulted in reduced wait times, I worry that even with more staff and improved technology, field offices will still be put to the test. Those long lines we successfully shortened could reappear.
Many field offices have shorter wait times in the afternoons, making it easier to walk in without an appointment. Yes, walk in without an appointment. Some locations are even open on Saturdays. Please take advantage of these slower periods and get your Real ID today. You can even check live wait times here for each site.
Before you go, please click here to make sure you have the right documents with you and start your application online here to reduce the time you'll need to spend at the DMV.
I will continue to monitor the situation and am ready to step in, if necessary.
Sincerely,
