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3 million Californians with Real IDs need additional proof of address

Earlier this week, the Department of Homeland Security sent a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom to reiterate that the state failed to comply with federal standards when accepting applications for the Real ID cards.

SACRAMENTO, Calif — More than three million Californians who have already gone through the process of obtaining a Real ID will have to send the DMV more documentation to meet stricter federal requirements. 

Earlier this week, the Department of Homeland Security sent a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom to reiterate that the state failed to comply with federal standards when accepting applications for the Real ID cards. The Department first communicated this failure in November 2018, writing "individuals who have not presented at least two documents demonstrating address of principal residence does not satisfy the requirements of the REAL ID regulations."

Previously, the DMV required applicants to bring one document with their residence address and counted on delivery by the post office as secondary proof of someone's address, the Associated Press reported, adding that emails show the Department of Homeland Security initially approved of that process and in November 2018 told the DMV that it was no longer acceptable. The DMV's website has been updated to address the change for those in the process of applying. 

Remember, a REAL ID will be needed to board airplanes or enter federal buildings by October 2020.

SO, WHAT'S NEXT?

The Department of Homeland Security has granted an extension to the state. This means California has until April 29, 2019, to require all people applying for a Real ID driver's license or ID card to provide two documents proving residency. 

Those who already have a Real ID will simply have to wait for the DMV to contact them. DMV officials said they will begin mailing letters to those with a Real ID and inform them that they must submit a second document with their address. 

The good news is, you won't have to show up in person to do it.  Your options are to send the second proof of address via mail, online, or at a DMV field office. 

"The DMV wants to make the process is as easy and convenient as possible for all REAL ID cardholders," said DMV Spokesperson Jaime Garza in an email to ABC10. "If you have a REAL ID driver license or identification card, you will be able to provide the second form of residency at your normal driver license/ID renewal time or you can satisfy it before then without having to visit a DMV office."   

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WHAT IF I'VE MOVED?

The news isn't great if you've moved since getting your Real ID. In that case, you will have to provide two new proofs of residency documents that have your new address. That means - you'll need to visit your local DMV or make an appointment.

Below is a list of the current status of all 50 states. California is listed as "under review." Click here for an interactive version of the map.

Credit: Department of Homeland Security


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