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California DMV to Reissue 325,000 REAL IDs After Legacy Software Error

A 2006 configuration miscalculated expiration dates for some lawful noncitizen residents, prompting fee-free, expedited replacements.

Overview

  • The department has begun notifying impacted Californians and will continue in the coming weeks with instructions to maintain federal compliance.
  • The software applied standard renewal intervals instead of matching card expiration to the end of authorized stay as required under federal rules.
  • Approximately 325,000 people are affected, representing about 1.5% of California REAL ID holders.
  • Officials state all cards were issued only after federal verification of lawful presence and none were issued to undocumented individuals.
  • Replacements are expedited and free, and the DMV warns it will not request personal information or payment by phone, text, or email.