REAL IDs are real, even if the DMV letter gets lost

Q. Hi Honk: What happens if a driver sends in a Department of Motor Vehicles fix-it letter, to ensure all requirements are met for a REAL ID, but the letter gets lost or is not processed by the DMV? My theory is, with the DMV’s old systems, low employee morale and several million forms to quickly process, many driver’s licenses will lose REAL ID status.
John C. Tolan, Alta Loma
A. Honk had horrified thoughts of waiting to board a jetliner for Hawaii with his family after Oct. 1, 2020