CA REAL ID Deadline In 2020: What To Know

The year is just about here. California drivers' licenses and state identification cards must be REAL ID compliant in late 2020 as state-issued ID cards fall in line with federal standards. Starting Oct 1., 2020, drivers' licenses and state IDs that are not REAL ID compliant will not be accepted as identification by federal authorities.

What's more, the California DMV is using the New Year's holiday as a reminder to state residents to get their new identification cards before time runs out, encouraging those who live in the Golden State to make it their resolution to get a REAL ID.

When the deadline is here, in order to fly within the United States or enter secure federal facilities, residents will be required to show one of the following documents at airport security checkpoints and specific federal screening locations:

• REAL ID driver license or identification card
• Passport or Passport Card
• Global Entry Card
• Other federally approved documents

Congress enacted the REAL ID Act in 2005, which defines a REAL ID as a federally acceptable form of identification.

The state has launched a website detailing the steps you need to take in order to get your REAL ID:

1. Fill out the application
2. Gather your documents
3. Visit a DMV office

Get started on your application and start 2020 off with checking this resolution off your list by visiting the state's site.