The federal REAL ID requirement will take effect on May 7, impacting domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities. New Yorkers who plan to fly domestically will soon need either a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, an Enhanced ID, or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport.
Your ID Options
New York State offers three types of identification documents, each with different purposes:
- Standard ID – Suitable for driving, voting, and everyday identification, standard licenses and IDs without a star or flag will NOT be accepted for domestic air travel or entry to federal facilities after May 7, 2025
- REAL ID – Marked with a star in the upper right corner, this federally compliant ID meets requirements for domestic air travel and entering secure federal buildings
- Enhanced ID – Displaying a U.S. flag, this option not only satisfies REAL ID requirements but also allows land and sea border crossings from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries
Required Documentation
To obtain a REAL ID or Enhanced ID, you must visit a New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person with specific documentation:
- One proof of identity (passport or U.S. birth certificate)
- Proof of Social Security Number
- Two proofs of New York State residency (issued within the last year)
- Current driver’s license if exchanging one from another state
- Proof of legal presence for non-U.S. citizens
- Documentation of any name changes (if applicable)
View the DMV recommended online document guide and checklist here.
Important Tips and Considerations
- No Additional Fee for REAL ID: There is no extra cost for obtaining a REAL ID beyond standard transaction fees
- Enhanced ID Fee: Enhanced IDs carry an additional $30 fee on top of regular transaction fees
- Early Renewal Option: You may be eligible to renew your license early to convert to a REAL ID or Enhanced ID, even if your current license is not close to expiration
- Appointment Recommended: DMV offices have seen increased demand as the deadline approaches; scheduling an appointment is highly recommended
- Pre-Screening Available: The DMV offers secure pre-screening of application documents before your in-person visit
- Plan Ahead: After applying, it takes approximately two weeks to receive your new REAL ID or Enhanced ID in the mail
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers will begin enforcing REAL ID requirements at airport security checkpoints starting May 7. Without a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative, travelers will not be permitted through security checkpoints. Read about TSA’s announcement here.
Don’t wait until the last minute to update your identification. Visit the New York State DMV’s dedicated REAL ID information page to:
- Access the document guide tool
- Schedule an appointment at your local DMV
- Calculate any applicable fees
- Learn more about the differences between ID types
For more detailed information about REAL ID requirements, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s official REAL ID page or the New York State DMV website.
