The mistake comes from a 2006 software issue
After a self-initiated review of its data systems, the California Department of Motor Vehicles has identified that 325,000 REAL ID holders in the state need new Real IDs.
“We proactively reviewed our records, identified a legacy system issue from 2006, and are notifying impacted customers with clear guidance on how to maintain a valid California-issued credential,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “For nearly 99% of REAL ID holders, no action is required. The DMV remains committed to serving all Californians and ensuring REAL ID credentials meet federal standards.”
The REAL ID Act was signed into law in 2005 by President George W. Bush to enforce enhanced security standards for state-issued IDs for federal purposes, like plane travel. The law went into full effect in May 2025.
The hundreds of thousands that will need new Real IDs make up just 1.5% of those with California REAL IDs. Only people who receive a notice will need to take steps for the reissue, which will not be communicated by call, text or email. Additionally, the DMV says it will expedite the reissuing process and waive any associated fees.
The software issue stems from a 2006 software configuration under the Schwarzenegger Administration that affected how expiration dates were applied to a subset of REAL IDs. In this batch, immigrants with lawful presence (permanent residents, green card holders and visa holders) obtained REAL IDs with standard expiration dates, instead of the expiration of a REAL ID holder’s authorized stay.
The DMV emphasized that at no point was anyone without legal presence issued a REAL ID.