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New Yorkers, take note: your go-to driver’s license may not be enough to get you past TSA in just a few weeks.
Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require you to present a REAL ID (or another approved identification document, like a passport) to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. If your license doesn’t have a little star or U.S. flag on it, you’re not compliant—and you’ll want to fix that before your next airport run turns into a security fail.
"You don’t want to wait until the last minute to get into the DMV if you still need a REAL ID or an Enhanced ID and you have upcoming travel plans," DMV commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said on the agency's website. "We do not yet know how the REAL ID Act will be enforced on May 7, so the best way to ensure smooth travel and avoid delays is to get to the DMV and upgrade your ID right away."
Here’s everything you need to know about a REAL ID, from what it is to how to get one in New York:
Wait—what’s a REAL ID, and why do I need one?
A REAL ID is a federally compliant version of your driver's license or state-issued ID, created after 9/11 to make IDs harder to fake. After May 7, 2025, the document will be mandatory for boarding domestic flights and entering certain secure federal facilities, such as military bases and nuclear facilities.
What’s the difference between a REAL ID and an Enhanced ID?
Both are federally compliant, but the Enhanced ID (which features a U.S. flag) also allows U.S. citizens to re-enter the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and certain parts of the Caribbean—no passport is required. That said, it costs an extra $30 and doesn’t work for air travel between countries.
How do I know if I already have one?
If your ID has a star or flag in the upper right corner, you’re good to go. If it says “Not for Federal Purposes,” you’ll need to upgrade.
How do I get one in NYC?
Step 1: Make a DMV appointment at your local office.
Step 2: Bring the necessary documents, per the DMV's checklist. These can include proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), your Social Security card and two proofs of New York residency (such as utility bills or bank statements from the past year).
Step 3: If your name has changed, bring supporting documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.).
You must apply in person—no online shortcuts here.
What if I miss the deadline?
You’ll still be able to drive, vote and access healthcare, but you won’t be able to fly domestically or get into federal buildings that require a secure ID, unless you’re carrying a valid passport.
Can I just keep my standard ID?
Sure, but only if you never plan on flying or visiting a secure federal facility again. The standard ID will still be valid for basic activities, such as driving, purchasing wine or voting.
Anything else I should know?
As of early 2025, millions of New Yorkers still haven’t upgraded. DMV lines will only get longer. Beat the rush and get your documents in order now—future you will thank you at the airport. Check what documents you need at dmv.ny.gov and get it done before the May 7, 2025 deadline.