REMINDER: ‘REAL ID’ federal deadline approaching for spring of 2025

ALBANY, NY- The New York State DMV is reminding residents that the federal deadline to obtain a ‘REAL ID’ is coming up May 7, 2025.

This means that in order to fly in the U.S., or enter certain governmental facilities, one will need to have a REAL ID, Enhanced ID, Passport or some other form of federally compliant documentation.

More on REAL and/or Enhanced ID here.

“Time is running out to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID and you do not want to get stuck at airport security if you are not prepared,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. 

“Take the time now to get this taken care of so you are not scrambling at the last minute.”

New Yorkers are encouraged to visit a DMV office as soon as possible to get a REAL ID even if their license, permit, or non-driver ID is not yet due for renewal.

There is no additional cost beyond the renewal fee to get a REAL ID. In addition to the REAL ID, 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.

NYS DMV image.