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CALIFORNIA ENHANCED DRIVER’S LICENSE VS REAL ID
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When you apply for a California Enhanced Driver’s License, you can choose to get REAL ID-compliant. This means that your license will be federally recognized and accepted at airport security checkpoints across the country. If you don’t want the enhanced version of your driver’s license, then it will function as an ordinary state-issued driver’s license or identification card.
When you apply for a California Enhanced Driver’s License, you can choose to get REAL ID-compliant.
When you apply for a California Enhanced Driver’s License, you can choose to get REAL ID-compliant.
WHAT IS A REAL ID?
The federal government has set new standards for state driver’s licenses that will be required by 2020 if you want to board domestic flights or enter military bases. If your state hasn’t already started issuing compliant cards, then it may not be too much longer before they do so. The Department of Homeland Security has issued several extensions but is now giving states just two years left before their original deadline expires in October 2020.
REAL ID is a new federal standard for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that were created after 9/11.
REAL ID is a new federal standard for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that were created after 9/11. REAL ID requires stricter proof of identity than standard licenses, as well as a more secure design.
The new regulations apply to all states except for those who have been granted an extension to comply with the law. California has received such an extension until October 2020 but it may be revoked at any time if they fail to meet REAL ID requirements by then.
The REAL ID card will be required when boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities unless you have another accepted form of identification.
The REAL ID card will be required when boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities unless you have another accepted form of identification.
The following federal agencies have announced that they will accept the California enhanced driver’s license as proof of identity:
- U.S. Passport Cards and Passports (current or expired)
- Military ID Cards (active duty, retired military, dependents and DoD civilians)
- DHS trusted traveler cards (NEXUS, SENTRI & FAST)
If you don’t have a REAL ID or a passport, you’ll need to bring an alternative form of photo identification.
If you don’t have a REAL ID or passport, you’ll need to bring an alternative form of photo identification. The DMV has listed the following acceptable forms:
- Driver’s license from any U.S. state or territory (if it has your current name, date of birth and photograph).
- Identification card from any U.S. state or territory (if it has your current name, date of birth and photograph).
- Military ID card issued by the U.S., its territories or possessions, armed forces overseas departments (APO/FPO) with picture; Merchant mariner document issued by Coast Guard for those who work on vessels in navigable waters; Native American tribal documents with photo such as Comanche Nation Tribal Enrollment Card; California Indian Census Roll Certificates; Bureau of Indian Affairs registration cards issued before 1986 that include enrollment number(s); Certificate(s) of Degree Issuance from California Community Colleges dated July 1st through June 30th (with registration number printed on front cover); Official school transcripts showing attendance during previous term(s).
You can upgrade your existing California driver’s license to an enhanced version only once every 12 years.
You can upgrade your existing California driver’s license to an enhanced version only once every 12 years. You also have to present proof of identity and residency, as well as pay the applicable fees. This means that if you already have a REAL ID-compliant DL, the DMV will not accept it when you apply for another one in the future.
Once you’ve upgraded your regular card to an enhanced one, there are no additional requirements (such as proving citizenship) needed before it expires–it remains valid until its expiration date on its face.*
To learn more about the differences between a California enhanced driver’s license and a REAL ID, contact us today!
To learn more about the differences between a California enhanced driver’s license and a REAL ID, contact us today!
California Enhanced Driver’s License Benefits:
- It serves as an identification card for people who do not have proof of legal presence in the United States.
- You can use it to board domestic flights (if you are not traveling with another acceptable form of identification).
- It can be used as proof of age when purchasing alcohol/tobacco products at licensed retailers.
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the California Enhanced Driver’s License and REAL ID. If you’re looking for more information about these cards, contact us today!
Answer ( 1 )
Are you planning to travel domestically or internationally and need a valid form of identification? With the implementation of new federal regulations, two options have emerged for Californians: the California Enhanced Driver’s License and the Real ID. But which one is best for you? In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about both forms of identification so that you can make an informed decision before your next adventure. Let’s dive in!
What is a California Enhanced Driver’s License?
A California Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) is a state-issued driver’s license that also serves as a valid form of identification for travelers crossing the borders of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. This type of license is an upgrade from a standard driver’s license and has additional security features to meet federal requirements.
The EDL contains both a machine-readable zone (MRZ) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, making it easy to read when crossing borders. The RFID chip stores personal information that can be accessed by customs officials at border crossings without the need to swipe or scan.
To obtain an EDL in California, you must provide proof of citizenship or legal residency status. You will also need to pass all necessary driving tests and pay any associated fees. It’s important to note that not all DMV locations offer this service, so be sure to check before scheduling an appointment.
If you frequently travel internationally or plan on doing so soon, obtaining a California Enhanced Driver’s License may be worth considering as it offers added convenience and ease when crossing borders without needing additional forms of identification.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a form of identification that meets the federal government’s requirements for air travel and other forms of federally regulated activities. In simple terms, it’s a new type of driver’s license that complies with the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005.
The Real ID includes specific security features to ensure maximum protection against fraud and identity theft. These include a gold star symbol on the card, which indicates that it is compliant with all federal regulations.
One advantage of having a Real ID is convenience when traveling domestically. Starting from October 1st, 2021, people will need one to fly within the United States or enter certain federal buildings.
However, obtaining a Real ID can be more complicated than getting an ordinary driver’s license. You’ll need to provide additional documents such as proof of residency and citizenship or lawful status in order to verify your identity.
It’s important to note that not everyone needs or wants a Real ID – standard state-issued IDs are still valid for driving purposes but may require additional documentation for air travel after October 2021 if they are not marked as compliant with the REAL ID Act.
Pros and Cons of each
California Enhanced Driver’s License and Real ID are both valid forms of identification that allow you to travel domestically. However, there are pros and cons for each option.
One advantage of a California Enhanced Driver’s License is its convenience. It acts as both a driver’s license and a passport card, allowing you to cross the border into Mexico or Canada by land or sea without needing an additional passport book.
On the other hand, one disadvantage is that it may not be accepted as valid identification in all states outside of California. Additionally, it can only be used for land or sea travel – if you plan on flying internationally, you will still need a passport book.
A Real ID-compliant driver’s license is another option for domestic travel. One benefit is that it is widely recognized across all 50 states and can also be used as official identification when applying for federal benefits.
However, obtaining a Real ID requires more documentation than getting an enhanced driver’s license. You must provide proof of identity, such as your birth certificate or passport book; proof of Social Security number; and two documents proving your California residency.
Ultimately, choosing between the two options depends on your personal needs and preferences. Consider factors like where you plan on traveling and how frequently before making your decision between these two types of IDs.
How to get a California Enhanced Driver’s License
Getting a California Enhanced Driver’s License is a simple process that involves just a few steps. The first step is to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, which include being a US citizen and having proof of identity and residency in California.
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you will need to visit your local DMV office and complete an application for an enhanced driver’s license. You will also need to provide documentation such as your birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and two proofs of residency.
After submitting your application and documents, you will be required to take a photograph for your new license. You may also need to submit fingerprints if this is not already on file with the DMV.
Pay the applicable fee for an enhanced driver’s license (which may vary depending on factors like age) before receiving it in the mail within 2-3 weeks following approval. With these easy steps completed successfully, you’ll soon possess all the benefits of having an enhanced driver’s license!
How to get a Real ID
Getting a Real ID is a simple process that requires some preparation. You need to gather specific documents that prove your identity, residency and legal presence in the United States. Once you have all the necessary paperwork, you can go to any DMV office and apply for a Real ID.
Make sure to plan ahead as there may be long wait times at DMV offices due to high demand for this type of identification. Also, keep in mind that if your current driver’s license or state-issued ID card expires soon, it might be more convenient to request a Real ID when renewing your existing document.
In summary, both California Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and Real IDs provide additional security features and convenience when traveling within the US by air or entering federal facilities. The choice between these two types of identification depends on personal preferences and needs.
Whatever option you choose, make sure you understand the requirements beforehand so that you can obtain your new document with ease and avoid any unnecessary complications down the road.