Can You Cross The Border With California Real ID | What You Must Know

A California Real ID allows you to travel domestically, but it cannot be used for international travel.

While a Real ID is valid for crossing state borders within the United States, it does not serve as a passport or a replacement for one when entering or leaving other countries.

If you plan to travel to Canada, Mexico, or any other country, you will need a passport or another approved travel document in addition to your Real ID. However, for domestic flights and accessing federal facilities, a California Real ID will be sufficient after the October 2021 deadline.

If you’ve heard about the California Real ID and are wondering whether it can be used for crossing the border, you’re not alone.

It’s important to understand its limits, especially when it comes to international travel. Can you use it to cross the border into Canada or Mexico? Can You Cross The Border With California Real ID?

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the purpose of the California Real ID, its requirements, and how it affects border crossings, both for domestic and international travel. Let’s get into the details!

What is a California Real ID?

A California Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets new federal requirements established by the REAL ID Act.

This act was passed after the 9/11 attacks to improve security standards for state-issued IDs and driver’s licenses. A Real ID-compliant ID includes additional features designed to enhance security, such as:

• A star on the top right corner (indicating Real ID compliance).

• Proof of identity: It requires supporting documents like a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and your Social Security Number.

• Stricter verification of your identity than the standard state ID.

Real IDs were initially set to be required for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities starting October 1, 2021.

This means if you don’t have a Real ID by this date, you may not be able to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings with just your regular driver’s license or ID. (Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security)

Can You Cross The Border With California Real ID?

Now, the main question: Can you use a California Real ID to cross the border?

The short answer is no—a California Real ID cannot be used for international travel, including crossing the borders into Canada or Mexico.

A Real ID is valid for domestic travel within the U.S., but when traveling abroad, you will still need to present a valid passport or another government-approved travel document.

1. Traveling to Canada

• If you’re planning a trip to Canada, the Real ID will not be sufficient for entry or exit. For entry into Canada, U.S. citizens need a passport or passport card. (Source: Travel.State.gov)

• You will also need a passport to return to the United States. U.S. citizens can use a passport card for land or sea travel (i.e., driving or taking a cruise), but a passport is still required for air travel.

2. Traveling to Mexico

• Similarly, a Real ID will not work for crossing into Mexico. You must have a passport to enter Mexico, whether by air, land, or sea.

• If you’re driving to Mexico, a passport card or a passport book will be necessary to re-enter the U.S. However, if you are only traveling to the U.S.-Mexico border region, there are some exceptions for short visits. But again, a Real ID is not an option for these crossings. (Source: Travel.State.gov)

Read Next: Student Travel Insurance For Schengen Visa | What You Must Know

When Can You Use a California Real ID?

Although you can’t use a Real ID for international travel, it is still incredibly useful for various types of domestic travel and everyday purposes. Here’s when and where your California Real ID can be used:

1. Flying Domestically

• The California Real ID will be accepted for domestic air travel starting October 1, 2021. If you’re flying between U.S. states, your Real ID will serve as valid identification for airport security and boarding. You won’t need to carry a passport for domestic flights, as long as you have your Real ID. (Source: California DMV)

2. Accessing Federal Facilities

• Starting October 1, 2021, a Real ID will be required for entry into federal buildings like military bases, nuclear facilities, and certain government offices. This is part of the federal security measures designed to standardize ID requirements.

3. Driving within the U.S.

• Your California Real ID will also function as a regular driver’s license, meaning you can continue driving in California and other states, provided you’re following the local laws and regulations.

How Does a California Real ID Compare to a Passport?

While both a California Real ID and a passport are government-issued identification documents, they serve different purposes.

For instance, a Real ID cannot be used for international travel, while a passport is required for all trips outside the U.S. Below is a comparison:

A passport is required for international travel, including to countries like Canada, Mexico, and any country outside the Schengen Area. If you plan to travel abroad, your passport is necessary.

What Are the Alternatives to a Real ID for International Travel?

If you’re planning to travel to another country, the only alternative to a California Real ID is a passport or, in some cases, a passport card. Here’s a breakdown of these documents:

1. U.S. Passport

• Purpose: International travel to any country.

• Validity: Typically valid for 10 years for adults (5 years for minors).

• Use: Required for all international travel by air, land, and sea.

2. U.S. Passport Card

• Purpose: A wallet-sized alternative to the passport for land and sea travel.

• Validity: Valid for 10 years for adults (5 years for minors).

• Use: Accepted for land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and certain countries, but not for air travel.

When Should You Get a Real ID?

If you plan to travel domestically within the United States by air, or if you need to access federal facilities starting October 1, 2021, getting a California Real ID is important.

However, if you are traveling internationally, make sure to have a valid passport as your primary travel document.