With the deadline nearing for Real IDs on May 7, 2025, only 55% of Californians have obtained one, according to a CBS News analysis. While other forms of ID like passports are valid alternatives, many travelers are still unprepared. DMV advises utilizing passports for travel since Real IDs take weeks to receive via mail. Notably, 81% of Americans present acceptable IDs at TSA checkpoints, but a significant portion still lacks appropriate identification, making this a critical time for Californians.
"Californians who do not have a REAL ID but already hold a valid passport can comfortably wait to convert to a REAL ID when their driver's license is due for renewal," a pop-up message on the DMV website reads.
The Transportation Security Administration said that 81% of Americans currently show acceptable IDs, including state-issued Real IDs or passports, at its checkpoints.
Despite several years of extensions, almost half of Californians have not switched to a Real ID, with only 55% having one as the deadline approaches.
Between 45% and 50% of Americans have a valid passport, according to NPR. That’s a significant increase from just 5% in 1990.
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