REAL ID and Enhanced ID: What New Yorkers Need to Know

REAL ID and Enhanced ID: What New Yorkers Need to Know

 

As of April 2025, New York residents are encouraged to obtain a REAL ID or Enhanced ID before the federal deadline on May 7, 2025. Starting on this date, travelers aged 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, Enhanced ID, passport, or another federally approved ID to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

 

This federal mandate, stemming from the REAL ID Act of 2005, will be enforced beginning May 7, 2025.
________________________________________

 

REAL ID vs. Enhanced ID

 

•    REAL ID: A driver’s license or non-driver ID marked with a star, indicating compliance with federal security standards.

 

•    Enhanced ID: A driver’s license or non-driver ID marked with a U.S. flag, meeting REAL ID standards and also allowing land or sea re-entry into the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries.
________________________________________

 

How to Obtain a REAL ID or Enhanced ID

 

To apply, visit a New York State DMV office in person. You’ll need to bring:

 

•    Proof of identity (e.g., passport or U.S. birth certificate)

 

•    Proof of legal presence (for non-U.S. citizens)

 

•    Two proofs of New York residency

 

•    Social Security card (if issued)

 

•    Your current driver’s license (if exchanging from another state)

 

Note: An Enhanced ID costs an additional $30 fee.
________________________________________

 

Schedule Your DMV Appointment

 

To avoid delays, it's highly recommended to schedule your DMV visit ahead of time. Use the official New York DMV reservation system here:

 

👉 https://public.nydmvreservation.com/

 

This system also offers a document pre-screening tool to make sure you're prepared before arriving.