Apply for a DL, ID or REAL ID

Department of Motor Vehicles

Last updated 08/02/2026

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Description

A California driver's license (DL), ID or REAL ID can be used for travel, proof of residency, personal identification, and other legal purposes. It serves as a government-issued photo identification that proves your identity, age, and legal presence in the United States, allowing you to access various services like opening bank accounts, voting, applying for jobs, age restricted purchses, and most importantly, driving a vehicle in California if you choose to get a DL. Start your California drivers license, ID or REAL ID application online, then finish in the DMV office.

Phone: 800-777-0133

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find FAQs about applying for a DL or ID card?
Where can I find FAQs about getting a REAL ID?
I'm a teenager. How do I get my driver's license?

Related services

Create a MyDMV Account DACA and AB60 Driver's License Get your mDL Register a vehicle Renew driver’s license or ID card Renew vehicle registration Report auto fraud Transfer vehicle title Update information (address, name, gender)

Topics

DMV/Auto, Personal records, Travel and recreation

Keywords

CA DL, id card, REAL ID, drivers license card