Dec. 9, 2024
News media questions: Chris Crabb, chris.c.crabb@odot.oregon.gov, 971-304-9705
Customer questions: 503-945-5000
 PORTLAND — Fun fact: While Santa Claus spends the winter at the North Pole, he also owns a home in Christmas Valley, Oregon, that serves as a satellite office. In the off season, he travels the U.S. to keep an eye on all the naughty and nice children.Customers at the SE Portland DMV office were surprised last Wednesday when Santa stopped by to get his REAL ID. He said he wanted to be REAL ID compliant and avoid the anticipated rush before the May 7, 2025, federal REAL ID deadline. DMV Administrator Amy Joyce donned an elf hat and joined in on the fun. |
 Santa used DMV’s online documents guide at dmv2u.oregon.gov to create a checklist of what he needed to bring. He then made an appointment on the same site, although he could’ve walked into any open DMV office. At the DMV, he presented his original documents proving his identity, date of birth, two proofs of his Oregon address from two different sources, and his lawful status in the U.S. (Santa has an unexpired L-1 visa inside a valid foreign passport with an admit stamp that allows him to work remotely from Oregon part of the year.) He then paid for his renewal, including the additional $30 REAL ID fee, and had his photo taken. He received his temporary paper ID and should receive his REAL ID card in the mail within 20 days. |
REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license, instruction permit or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. The purpose of REAL ID is to make U.S. identity documents more consistent and secure.
 Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require every air traveler 18 years and older to present a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative – like a U.S. passport, passport card or military ID – to board a flight within the U.S. REAL ID will also be required to access certain federal facilities like military bases or nuclear plants. Learn more at Oregon.gov/REALID.# # #Photos available for download from our Flickr account: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBUfnJ |