Recently The California Department of Motor Vehicles begins accepting applications today for "Real ID" driver's licenses and state identification cards. These are licenses and IDs that will be required to board a domestic flight, enter federal buildings and visit military installations starting in 2020. So here is what you need to do...
Go to the DMV
Apply for REAL ID drivers license
You're all set!
Q: What is a Real ID drivers license or identification card?
It's a license or ID that is compliant with the Real ID Act, a law passed by Congress in 2005 following 9/11 that sought to create standardized driver's licenses in all states. The law established certain national security requirements for these state-issued documents. Beginning Oct. 1, 2020, travelers boarding domestic commercial flights, entering a military base, or using their ID for other federal purposes will need to present a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card. While non-compliant licenses or IDs won't be accepted, people can present other federally compliant documents, such as a passport, passport card, or military ID for taking flights and other federal uses.
Q: Is obtaining a Real ID license or identification card necessary?
No, it is not. "A Real ID driver's license or ID card is optional," said DMV spokeswoman Jessica Gonzalez. "It is just an easier way for you to continue using your driver's license to board a domestic flight. That is really the main part of it." Californians who don't wish to obtain a Real ID license or state identification may apply for what's called a "federal non-compliant" driver's license or ID card. The card will be marked with the words "federal limits apply." Californians who choose this option may continue to use their state licenses to drive and use it as they do now. But they won't be able to use them starting in 2020 for taking a domestic flight, for example. If they don't have a Real ID license or identification card, they'll need to present a passport or other approved document to fly.
Q: How does this affect AB 60 driver's license holders?
According to the California DMV, the changes don't apply to the nearly one million immigrants who have driver's licenses under A.B. 60, the law that allows unauthorized immigrants in the state to apply for the licenses. According to the DMV, only people who are legally in the United States may apply for a Real ID license or identification. "If you already have an A.B. 60 driver's license, when it is time for you to renew, you can just continue to renew by mail, or online as normal," said the DMV's Gonzalez. She added that A.B. 60 license applicants' information will not be shared with the federal government.
Q: Must those who want a Real ID license apply right away?
No, there is no rush, according to DMV officials. Until Oct. 1, 2020, a valid California driver's license may still be used to board a domestic flight, or to enter a secure facility. Today is simply the date that the Real ID option becomes available to California residents. Q: How do I apply?
Those wishing to apply for a Real ID license or identification card must do so in person at a DMV office. Applicants must make an appointment and come prepared with proof of California residency, proof of their Social Security number, and proof of identity such as a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card (green card) or a foreign passport with an approved form I-94 arrival and departure record. The DMV has posted a list of documents that Real ID applicants may use. The cost is the same as for a regular California driver's license, $35. The cost is $30 for state ID cards. DMV officials said the processing time should be about four weeks.
Do we offer Behind-the-Wheel in your city?
California Learners Permit and Drivers License Information
Q: Where can I get my drivers ed done?
Many schools here in Chino Hills and the surrounding area provide drivers ed online. Ace Driving & Traffic school is the only one we know to offer in classroom classes.
Q: What do I need to do to get a California driver’s license?
If you are 15 ½ – 17 years of age, you must:
Apply for a learners permit and hold it for at least 6 months
Pass a behind-the-wheel class
Pass the DMV road test
If you are 18 years of age or older, you must:
Apply for a license and pass the written test
Be issued a driver’s permit to practice in-car training
Pass the DMV road test
Q: Is it necessary for me to get a learners permit?
If you are 15 ½ – 17 years of age, you must get a learners permit and have it for six months before earning your driver’s license. If you are 18 years of age or older and have never been licensed, you will receive a drivers permit so you practice driving legally. You can schedule a DMV road test once you feel comfortable behind the wheel.
Q: How do I apply for a California Learners Permit?
There are a few requirements and things you will need to do to get your California learners permit.
AGE: You must be between 15 ½ and 17 years old to apply for your permit.
APPLICATION: Fill out the DL 44 form that’s available at your local DMV office (copies are not accepted, must be original).
SIGNATURES: Because you are a minor, you will need to get your parent or legal guardian’s signature on the DL 44 before turning it in.
VISIT THE DMV: To apply for your permit you have to go down to the DMV in person (if you want to avoid the long lines, make an appointment online, appointments are usually about 3 weeks away).
DRIVERS ED: If you have already completed drivers ed, bring your certificate of completion with you.
IDENTIFICATION: When you are at the DMV, they will take your photo and your thumbprint.
OTHER INFO: Be sure you have your Social Security number, birth certificate, and legal citizen status paperwork.
PAYMENT: You will have to pay an application fee, which entitles you to three exams (of any kind) over the course of a year.
VISION EXAM: Whether you wear glasses, contacts, or your eyes are fine without, you will have to pass a vision test. 20/40 vision is the DMV’s standard requirement.
WRITTEN EXAM: You will also be tested on traffic laws and signs. You are granted three chances to pass this test.
Q: What are the prerequisites for getting my California driver’s license?
To apply for a California driver’s license, you must have:
Had a learners permit for at least 6 months
Passed behind-the-wheel instructions
Passed the DMV road test
You can contact your local California DMV office to complete the paperwork and schedule appointments for your written and road tests. To find a DMV office near you, please click here.
Q: How long will it take to have my license mailed to me after I pass the road test?
Your license will be mailed to you within 60 days of passing your road test. In the meantime, you will be handed a temporary printed license. Be sure you don’t lose it!
Q: What if I have any other questions?
Give us a call! We will be happy to answer your questions promptly.