In a move to make obtaining a REAL ID more convenient, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced that select DMV offices will open on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. exclusively for REAL ID appointments. This limited-time opportunity is designed to help Californians upgrade to a REAL ID, even after the federal enforcement deadline passed on May 7, 2025. Appointments are mandatory, and only REAL ID services will be available during these special hours.
Why Get a REAL ID Now?
The REAL ID Act, enforced as of May 7, 2025, requires a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card (or another federally approved document like a valid U.S. passport) to board domestic flights and access secure federal facilities. While the deadline has passed, the California DMV continues to offer REAL ID services to ensure all residents have access to this critical identification.
“Even though the federal enforcement deadline has passed, the DMV will continue to offer REAL IDs to Californians who want one,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “We’re making it easier for customers to upgrade by offering additional weekend appointments.”
For those who don’t yet have a REAL ID, there’s no need to rush. You can wait until your driver’s license is due for renewal or use an alternative federally accepted document, such as a valid passport or permanent resident card, for domestic travel.
Which DMV Offices Are Open on May 17?
The following California DMV offices will be open on Saturday, May 17, 2025, for appointment-only REAL ID services:
Concord: 2070 Diamond Blvd.
Fullerton: 909 W. Valencia Drive
Glendale: 1335 W. Glenoaks Blvd.
Oakland: 5300 Claremont Ave.
Poway: 13461 Community Road
Riverside East: 6425 Sycamore Canyon Blvd.
Roseville: 7200 Galilee Road
San Clemente: 2727 Via Cascadita
San Jose: 111 W. Alma Ave.
Thousand Oaks: 1810 E. Avenida De Los Arboles
West Covina: 800 S. Glendora Ave.
How to Prepare for Your REAL ID Appointment
To streamline your visit, the DMV strongly recommends starting the REAL ID application process online at REALID.dmv.ca.gov. Here’s how to prepare:
Start Online: Visit the REAL ID portal to begin your application and upload required documents, such as proof of identity, Social Security Number, and California residency.
Book an Appointment: Schedule your May 17 visit at one of the participating DMV offices. Appointments are required, and walk-ins will not be accepted.
Bring Physical Copies: Bring physical copies of the documents you uploaded online to your appointment to finalize the application.
Save Time: Completing the online application and scheduling an appointment will significantly reduce your wait time at the DMV.
Try DMV Online Services First
The California DMV has expanded its digital offerings to make many transactions accessible without an office visit. Tasks like driver’s license renewals, vehicle registration renewals, and other self-service transactions can be completed online at dmv.ca.gov. Use the Service Advisor tool on the DMV website to explore your options for completing tasks remotely.
For a paperless experience, sign up for electronic vehicle registration and driver’s license renewal notices by creating a secure account at dmv.ca.gov and opting in.
Contact the California DMV
For more information, contact the DMV Office of Public Affairs at:
Address: 2415 First Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95818
Phone: (916) 657–6437
Email: dmvpublicaffairs@dmv.ca.gov (mailto:dmvpublicaffairs@dmv.ca.gov)
Why This Matters
With the REAL ID Act now in effect, having a compliant ID is essential for domestic travel and accessing federal facilities. The DMV’s special Saturday hours on May 17 provide a convenient opportunity for busy Californians to complete their REAL ID applications. By starting the process online and booking an appointment, you can ensure a quick and hassle-free visit.
Don’t miss this chance to secure your REAL ID! Visit REALID.dmv.ca.gov today to start your application and reserve your spot for May 17.