The California Department of Motor Vehicles announced this week that it would be offering free REAL ID upgrades to Californians who renewed or received a driver's license or identification card during the pandemic.

The extended deadline is now May 3, 2023, for U.S. citizens to show a federally approved document, such as a REAL ID or a passport, in order to board a domestic flight. These will also be required to enter military bases and federal facilities.

You can start your application for a free upgrade online — which is available through the end of 2021 — and then schedule an appointment at a DMV office near you.