New York DMV: Get your ‘REAL ID’ now as deadline is less than a year away
May 7, 2025 is the deadline to achieve a ‘REAL ID’ in order to still be able to fly domestically and enter certain government facilities.
“Now is the time to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID rather than waiting until the last minute,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder.
“I encourage New Yorkers to visit our website to find out what you need to apply and take advantage of DMV mobile units when they visit your region.”
Beginning May 7, 2025, everyone flying in the US will need a REAL ID, Enhanced ID, Passport or another form or federally compliant identification to fly domestically and enter certain federal facilities, the DMV reminds.
New Yorkers whose license or ID is up for renewal now can get a REAL ID at no additional cost beyond the renewal fee.
In addition to the REAL ID, which is also needed to enter some federal buildings, the DMV offers an Enhanced ID which meets federal REAL ID standards.
An Enhanced ID costs $30 extra and can be used as identification when returning to the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and some countries in the Caribbean.
A passport is also acceptable as a REAL ID-compliant document.
Starting May 7, 2025, a standard license or non-driver ID will not be accepted to fly within the U.S. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses, permits and ID cards.
The federal REAL ID Act requires customers applying for a REAL ID or Enhanced ID to visit a DMV office or mobile unit to prove who they are and to have a new photograph taken.
Many DMV offices strongly encourage customers to make a reservation, which can be done online.
NYS DMV image.
