The mistake comes from a 2006 software issue <\/p>\n
After a self-initiated review of its data systems, the California Department of Motor Vehicles has\u00a0identified\u00a0that 325,000 REAL\u00a0ID holders in the state need new Real IDs.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cWe 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,\u201d said DMV Director Steve Gordon. \u201cFor\u00a0nearly 99%\u00a0of REAL ID holders, no action is\u00a0required. The DMV\u00a0remains\u00a0committed to serving all Californians and ensuring REAL ID credentials meet federal standards.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
The REAL ID Act was signed into law in 2005 by President George W. Bush\u00a0to enforce enhanced security standards for state-issued IDs for federal purposes,\u00a0like plane travel.\u00a0The law went into full effect in\u00a0May 2025.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
The hundreds of thousands that will need new Real IDs\u00a0make\u00a0up just 1.5% of those with California REAL IDs. Only\u00a0people\u00a0who receive a notice will need to take steps for\u00a0the reissue, which will not be communicated by call,\u00a0text\u00a0or email. Additionally, the DMV says\u00a0it will\u00a0expedite\u00a0the reissuing process and waive any associated fees.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
The software issue\u00a0stems from a 2006 software configuration under the Schwarzenegger Administration that affected how\u00a0expiration\u00a0dates were applied to a subset of REAL IDs.\u00a0In this batch, immigrants\u00a0with lawful\u00a0presence\u00a0(permanent residents, green card\u00a0holders\u00a0and visa holders) obtained REAL IDs\u00a0with standard\u00a0expiration\u00a0dates, instead of the\u00a0expiration\u00a0of a REAL ID holder\u2019s authorized stay.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n