DMV Alerts Californians About Real ID License Reissues
This week, the DMV announced that around 325,000 Californians will need to get their Real ID licenses replaced.
The problem arose from a software glitch, leading to numerous residents having to reissue their state driver’s licenses.
“DMV is reaching out to those affected to guide them on the necessary steps,” officials noted in a Wednesday news release.
A review of the records indicated that the problems stemmed from “legacy system issues from 2006.”
Some legal immigrants received Real IDs, which are permanent, simultaneously with their residence permits.
This situation impacts about 1.5% of Real ID holders in California.
Importantly, officials clarified that no unauthorized individuals have received these IDs.
The DMV will waive related fees for those affected.
DMV Director Steve Gordon remarked, “We are currently reviewing our records to identify errors linked to legacy systems from 2006 and are providing clear instructions to impacted customers on keeping their California-issued credentials valid.”
It was explained that some licenses issued to legal immigrants have incorrect expiration dates that don’t align with their residency permits.
“For nearly 99% of Real ID holders, there’s no need for concern. The DMV is dedicated to serving all Californians and ensuring that Real ID credentials meet federal standards,” he added.
The federal Real ID Act, which was enacted in 2005, set new regulations for identification documents required for domestic flight travel. It is set to be fully implemented by May 2025.
The Real ID driver’s license features a unique golden bear in the upper right corner.
