Trump has begun another trade war. Here's a timeline of how we got here
Canada's leader laments lost friendship with US in town that sheltered stranded Americans after 9/11
Chinese EV giant BYD's fourth-quarter profit leaps 73%
You're an American in another land? Prepare to talk about the why and how of Trump 2.0
Chalk talk: Star power, top teams and No. 5 seeds headline the women's March Madness Sweet 16
Purdue returns to Sweet 16 with 76-62 win over McNeese in March Madness
As the federal Real ID enforcement took effect on May 7, California finds itself grappling with a significant number of residents yet to obtain the compliant identification necessary for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, approximately 18.6 million Californians had acquired a Real ID as of Feb. 1, leaving about 8.4 million residents without one. This means nearly one-third of the state's drivers and ID holders are at risk of facing travel disruptions.
In response to the impending deadline, the California DMV has implemented measures to facilitate the application process. These include opening select offices an hour earlier and offering Saturday hours in certain locations to accommodate the surge in applicants. Despite these efforts, many DMV offices have experienced long lines and appointment backlogs, indicating the challenges in meeting the demand.
The Real ID Act, enacted in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. Individuals must present a Real ID-compliant license or an alternative federally accepted form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities.
The Transportation Security Administration has indicated that travelers without a Real ID may still be allowed to fly but could undergo additional identity verification procedures at airport security checkpoints. However, the agency emphasizes the importance of obtaining a compliant ID to avoid potential delays or complications
For Californians seeking to obtain a Real ID, the DMV recommends initiating the process online at REALID.dmv.ca.gov, where applicants can upload necessary documents before completing the application in person. Required documents include proof of identity, proof of California residency, and a Social Security number.
As the state continues to address the challenges associated with the Real ID rollout, officials urge residents to act promptly to ensure compliance and avoid travel disruptions.
