Final answer:
Legally acceptable IDs in California must include a photo, a name that matches registration records, a clear expiration date, and issuance by the state or U.S. government, following the Real ID Act of 2005's standards for security and anti-fraud measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
A characteristic of a legally acceptable ID in California includes the presence of photo identification that verifies the identity of the individual. Proper identification should show the name of the individual as it matches the registration records, display a clear expiration date, and be current or have only expired since the last general election. Furthermore, IDs issued by the state of California or the U.S. government are required, adhering to standards such as those outlined by the Real ID Act of 2005 which includes standardized anti-fraud security features, specific data, and machine-readable technology.
In California, a stringent voter ID law, such as Proposition 187, was challenged and found to be preempted by federal laws, showing the complexity and tensions surrounding identification and voting regulations. Despite challenges and the financial burdens it poses on citizens, particularly minorities and low-income groups, the requirement for photo identification remains a legal necessity for various functions within the state including voting, where states may offer low-cost or free identification to facilitate compliance with these laws.