The California DMV will issue a federal compliant “Real ID” — the new identification that will be required to board a plane starting in 2020 — as an option to drivers beginning Jan. 22.

While the new ID will soon be mandated, there is no rush to get the new form of identification in January because a valid California driver license or ID card can be used until Oct. 1, 2020.

On Oct. 1, 2020, the federal government will require your driver license or ID card to be Real ID compliant if you wish to use it as an identification to board an airplane or enter federal facilities, according to the California DMV.

Valid U.S. passports or passport cards, military ID or other federally approved identifications may still be used to pass a TSA checkpoint at airports nationwide or visit secure federal buildings.

The federal Real ID Act of 2005 was passed in response to the events of 9/11, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

The new form of ID will have a special marking of a California grizzly bear with a star on the top right corner of the card.

U.S. citizens and all legal residents of the United States can apply for a Real ID driver license or ID card, according to the California DMV.

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Although the TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to provide an identification when traveling, the companion will need acceptable identification.

Those who know they will not be boarding a domestic flight or visiting a secure federal facility do not need a Real ID, according to the California DMV.

You also don’t need a REAL ID to drive, apply for federal benefits, visit a hospital or receive life-saving services, according to the agency. 

To apply for a Real ID card, you must make an appointment with your local DMV on or after Jan. 22, 2018 and provide proof of identity, as well as a valid social security number.

For more information about the federal compliant Real ID, visit the California DMV website here.

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