With the May 7 federal REAL ID deadline just two months away, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging New Yorkers to visit a DMV office to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID as soon as possible. Starting May 7, everyone flying in the United States or visiting a secure federal facility will need a REAL ID, Enhanced ID, passport or another form of federally compliant identification.

“Whether you are planning to fly soon or not, the REAL ID deadline is almost here, and we want all New Yorkers to be prepared,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “The last thing you want to do is delay a trip, or worse, be unable to fly if you need to in a pinch because you don’t have the right identification. So don’t delay in making your REAL ID appointment, and before you come see us, check out our online resources so you can be sure you have everything you need.”  

Passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the federal REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses, permits and ID cards. The law requires customers to bring certain documents to the DMV to prove who they are and to have a new photograph taken before their REAL ID can be issued.  

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

To create more opportunity for customers to obtain a REAL ID, DMV has announced Saturday morning hours for REAL ID appointments at select offices in New York City and on Long Island from April through June. In addition, DMV offices in Broome, Erie and Monroe counties also operate on Saturdays, and various mobile DMV offices operate throughout the state.  New Yorkers can visit DMV’s website for specific office hours and to make a reservation.  

The DMV has implemented several online tools, such as a document guide and an online application pre-screening process, to help New Yorkers prepare. DMV is also advising New Yorkers to avoid common mistakes that can stymie their REAL ID application, such as failing to provide proof of their full, legal name.

In addition to the REAL ID, which costs the same as renewing a standard license, the DMV offers an Enhanced ID for an additional $30 fee. This ID is acceptable for federal REAL ID purposes 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.

For more information about REAL ID and Enhanced Driver Licenses, visit Enhanced or REAL ID and watch DMV's REAL ID instructional video on YouTube.