Let’s get real

How to get a REAL ID in Sacramento

A REAL ID or passport will be required for domestic flying in May 2025. | Photo by @jackforsac0805

Were you scrambling to get your REAL ID by the initial May 2023 deadline? Great news — the TSA just officially extended the enforcement date another two years, to May 7, 2025. But whether it’s in four months or two years, you’re eventually going to need this updated license to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

It’s never too early to plan ahead — so here’s a quick guide on how to get your REAL ID, including cost + documents you’ll need to prepare.

Am I required to get a REAL ID?

Nope. The purpose of the REAL ID program is to ensure state issued licenses can also be used for federal purposes. You’ll want one if you plan to fly domestically or enter secure federal or military facilities — but you can still vote, drive, apply for benefits, and more with a standard California license.

Psst — you can also board a flight with these other federally accepted forms of ID.

How much do they cost?

Expect to pay around $38 total for a driver’s license renewal or $31 total for a driver’s license replacement.

Is my license already REAL ID certified?

Check the upper right corner — if there’s a star, it’s a REAL ID. If there’s no star or the words “Federal Limits Apply,” it’s not a REAL ID.

How do I apply?

For Californians, you’ll have to complete an online application before you can go in-person for your ID. Once completed, bring your application confirmation code with you.

Don’t forget to bring physical documentation with you and make sure you’re fully prepped for your visit with this handy document guide and checking DMV wait times before you go.

Here are five DMVs in the Sacramento area:

Downtown — 4700 Broadway, Sacramento
South Sac — 7775 La Mancha Way, Sacramento
Carmichael — 5209 North Ave., Carmichael
Roseville — 7200 Galilee Rd., Roseville
Folsom — 323 E Bidwell St., Folsom

Click here to have your event featured.

Monday, Jan. 9

Virtual Zumba | Monday, Jan. 9 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Join this dance fitness party from the comfort of your own home.
Sacramento Kings vs. Orlando Magic | Monday, Jan. 9 | 7 p.m. | Golden 1 Center, 500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento | $10-$162 | The Kings look for another chance to “Light the Beam.”

Wednesday, Jan. 11

Studio Classes: Adults | Wednesday, Jan. 11 | 1:30 p.m. | Virtual | $90-$110 | Experience the Crocker’s world-renowned collection and diverse exhibitions through discussion and art-making.
Sactown Sci-Fi Book Discussion Group | Wednesday, Jan. 11 | 6-7 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Join in on the chat over this month’s book, Cixin Liu’s “The Three-Body Problem.”

We have a calendar filled with events and activities you can plan for in advance. Click the button below to bookmark ideas for upcoming date nights, family outings, and time with friends.

100+ MORE EVENTS

Weather

66º | Heavy rain/wind | 100% chance of rain 🌧️
NWS Sacramento says today might be the hardest hit in our series of recent storms, with winds up to 60 mph and heavy rain expected through Tuesday. Remember to check our flood resources guide, and what to do when returning home from a flood.

Biz

After closing in 2021 due to the pandemic, El Dorado Hills’ Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse has reopened. In addition to its well-known pizza, the spot also serves salads, pastas, burgers, and sandwiches. 🍕 (Sac Biz Journal)

Sports

The Kings lost Saturday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers, 136-134. De’Aaron Fox led the team in scoring with 34 points and 9 assists. (ESPN)

Travel

Delta Airlines announced it will offer free WiFi on about 80% of its flights as soon as Wednesday, Feb. 1. Start planning your flights with our guide to SMF. ✈️ (Engadget)

Listen

With Sac being home to such a lively music scene, we wanted to highlight local bands that have been making noise in the area to your center stage. Discover four artists — from rock, hip-hop + blues — that may deserve a spot on your playlist. 🎶

Eat

Don’t just eat better — eat the best. Sunbasket’s meal kit service delivers delicious, healthy meals created by award-winning chefs straight to your front door. Bonus: SACtoday readers can get $100 off their first four deliveries and more when they sign up. 🍽️ *

Content marked with an * is brought to you by our advertising partners and helps make this newsletter free.

Calling all helpers

35+ volunteer opportunities in Sacramento

A group of people are seen gesticulating on the edge of a garden

Empower youth through gardening as a volunteer at Three Sisters Gardens in West Sac. | Photo courtesy of @threesistersgardens

As Sacramento continues to be hit hard by the inclement weather, it’s important now more than ever to come together to help your neighbors. Here are a few ways to get involved and give back to your community in Sac.

Sac Loaves & Fishes | Help cook meals for those experiencing homelessness at the long-standing organization that grew out of a simple act in 1983: sharing a midday meal.

Midtown HART | Check in and be an ear for guests at the nonprofit’s respite center for those experiencing homelessness. You’ll also serve coffee and light snacks, while facilitate the receipt of clothing donations.

Sacramento Senior Safety Collaborative | Be an escort for residents 62 and older as they enjoy walks and complete errands.

Three Sisters Gardens | Spread roots in the community by empowering youth through organic gardening.

Habitat for Humanity | Build and restore homes for low-income families, seniors, and veterans in the community.

33 MORE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

THE WRAP

Today’s issue was written by Jordan.

Editor’s pick: Stay safe everyone. ❤️ For the most up-to-date weather info, check NWS Sacramento’s Twitter account, and be sure to visit the City of Sacramento’s website for emergency response information.

Missed Friday’s newsletter? We helped guide you through returning home from a flood.

Connect with us.

Editorial: Jordan Radach, Britt Thorson, Emily Shea, Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto, Dayten Rose, Sarah Leonhardt, Katie Smith | Send us a scoop, question, or feedback.

Sales: Julie Brown | Advertise with us.

Content marked with an * was created in partnership with 6AM City’s advertising partners. Paid content helps keep this newsletter free. 6AM City may also receive a commission on purchases made through affiliate links in this newsletter.

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