(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — You’ve probably heard it before, but this time it’s real: starting May 7, the federal government will require a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other approved identification to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings—and Ventura County officials say now is the time to act.
Clerk-Recorder Michelle Ascencion said her office is already seeing an uptick in birth certificate requests, as residents prepare to meet the federal standards before the May deadline. For people in Simi Valley, this means making sure you have the documents you must present—especially a certified copy of your birth certificate, which is required to apply for either a REAL ID or a passport if you don’t already have one.
Anyone born in Ventura County—or their parent, sibling, child, grandchild, or spouse—can request a certified birth certificate through the Ventura County Clerk-Recorder’s Office. It can be done in person by appointment at the Ventura office, by mail with notarization, or online through the secure VitalChek portal. A valid photo ID is required for in-person requests, and the cost per certified copy is $29, with additional fees for card payments or mailing.
To apply for a REAL ID through the California DMV, you must appear in person and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your current address. A passport is a valid alternative if you choose not to update your driver’s license, but passport processing times currently take several weeks, and DMV appointments are booking up quickly.
Appointments for REAL ID are available online at both the Simi Valley DMV (3855-A Alamo Street) and Thousand Oaks DMV (1810 E. Avenida De Los Arboles). Both locations are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and REAL ID transactions are available during regular office hours. Appointments can be made at dmv.ca.gov.
Without one of these federally accepted IDs, you won’t be able to fly out of Burbank, LAX, or even Oxnard’s regional airport, and entry to secure federal facilities—such as courthouses, military bases, or offices requiring identification—will be restricted. While many people are aware of the rule, some may not realize how long the process can take or how congested it will get as the deadline nears.
To avoid last-minute stress, the County Clerk-Recorder’s office urges residents—especially students planning trips, seniors with renewals, and parents coordinating travel documents—to take care of this now. For more information or to request a certified birth certificate, visit ClerkRecorder.venturacounty.gov or call (805) 654-3666.
