The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is reissuing approximately 325,000 REAL IDs after discovering a software glitch that incorrectly calculated expiration dates for some noncitizen residents.
This issue affects about 1.5% of REAL ID holders in the state. The DMV has assured that all affected individuals will be contacted directly, and the agency will expedite the renewal process while waiving all associated fees.
The problem stems from a coding error dating back to 2006, during the Schwarzenegger administration. The error miscalculated expiration dates by applying standard renewal intervals instead of aligning with the end of an individual’s authorized stay. According to The Desert Sun, this oversight went unnoticed for nearly two decades.
DMV Director Steve Gordon stated, “We proactively reviewed our records, identified a legacy system issue from 2006, and are notifying impacted customers with clear guidance.” The DMV remains committed to ensuring compliance with federal REAL ID standards, which became mandatory on May 7, 2025. As reported by KTVU, the department is working swiftly to correct the issue and ensure that all REAL ID holders meet federal requirements.
The glitch primarily affects immigrants with legal status, including permanent residents, green card holders, and visa holders. Their REAL ID expiration dates must align with their authorized stay in the United States. NBC Bay Area reports that the DMV will continue notifying affected Californians over the coming months to rectify the error.
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