California DMV error forces 325K people to get new Real IDs
An estimated 325,000 Californians will need to replace their REAL ID driver’s licenses after the Department of Motor Vehicles acknowledged a longstanding software error this week.
According to state officials, a technical issue in an outdated DMV system caused some licenses to be issued incorrectly, requiring affected residents to obtain reissued credentials.
In a news release Wednesday, the DMV said it is notifying impacted individuals and providing instructions on the steps needed to correct the problem. A review of agency records traced the issue to a “legacy system error from 2006.”
Officials said some legal immigrants were mistakenly issued REAL ID licenses without expiration dates that matched the length of their legal authorization to remain in the United States. The problem affects roughly 1.5% of all REAL ID holders in California.
The DMV emphasized that no undocumented individuals received REAL IDs as a result of the error.
Fees will be waived for all Californians required to replace their licenses.
“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 federal REAL ID Act was signed into law in 2005 and established stricter identification standards for boarding domestic flights. The law took full effect in May 2025. REAL ID–compliant driver’s licenses are marked with a gold bear in the upper-right corner.
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