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SOLERA DIAMOND VALLEY | JANUARY 2020 17 By Theresa Rossetti, Resident In 2005 the federal government passed a law requiring all states to upgrade state identification documents to Real ID cards, which are harder to forge. Beginning October 1, 2020, you will need a federally compliant Real ID or a passport, passport card, military ID, or another form of TSA approved ID to board all domestic flights, enter a federal facility or a military base. You cannot obtain one by applying online. A DMV visit is needed. The REAL ID Card is not mandatory. If you're never going to fly domestically or visit a secure federal facility or military base, you don't need one. You don't need one to drive in the state, vote, apply for or receive federal benefits (such as Social Security) or go to a federal facility that does not require one (think post office). My license needed to be renewed in January. I received my notice in September. Although I have a passport, I decided to apply for a REAL ID card as I had to go to the DMV anyway. The DMV website has all the information needed to apply. They recommend filling out the application online and making an appointment. I requested an appointment only to find out that the earliest available anywhere near home was 11 weeks away! In the DMV's defense, you don't need an appointment, you can walk in. Also, it's not mandatory to fill out the application online. The DMV website has a checklist for what is needed. In summary, here are examples of the most common items you'll need to bring: Proof of identity. One of the following: passport, U.S. birth certificate, foreign passport with valid visa, certificate of naturalization or citizenship, permanent Resident Card. Proof of Social Security number. Your SS card, a W-2, SSA-1099 form or a paystub. Photocopies of any of these documents are not acceptable. Two documents proving California residency. Printed copies are acceptable. A home utility bill, car registration, medical, employment, insurance or bank documents, your license or identification card, property tax bill, etc. If you've had a name change somewhere along the line, make sure all your documents have the same name on them. Do consult the DMV checklist for everything you need to bring to complete this whole thing in one visit. My suggestions to make it as speedy as possible: Make an appointment. Fill out the application online. If you're renewing your license as well and you must retake the knowledge test, study the current DMV Driver's Booklet and take the practice tests online. I'm happy to report I'll still be able to drive after my birthday, and I'll have a gold star on my license to show the TSA! Do You Need A Real ID Card?

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