Additional Coverage:
New York DMV Offers Extended Hours as REAL ID Deadline Approaches
New York residents are being urged to obtain a REAL ID before the upcoming federal deadline. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other federally accepted identification will be required for domestic air travel and access to secure federal facilities, including military bases. This change affects all Americans, not just New Yorkers.
Less than half of the U.S. population currently holds a passport, the most common alternative for those without a REAL ID. Therefore, obtaining a REAL ID is crucial for those who wish to continue flying domestically without a passport.
REAL ID licenses and identification cards feature a star or flag indicating they meet federal regulations designed to improve security and prevent the use of fraudulent identification.
“REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards,” explains Bart R. Johnson, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Upstate New York airports. “The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.”
To obtain a REAL ID in New York, residents must visit a DMV office with the following documents:
- Proof of identity
- Two proofs of New York residency
- Social Security card or number
- Current driver’s license (if applicable)
All documents must be original and current; expired or outdated documents will not be accepted.
To accommodate the anticipated surge in demand, New York DMVs are extending their hours of operation and adding appointment slots in some areas. DMV Commissioner Mark J.F.
Schroeder emphasized the DMV’s commitment to assisting New Yorkers in obtaining their REAL ID or Enhanced license before the deadline. He noted the extended hours and additional appointments are specifically aimed at regions where securing an appointment has been challenging.
To further streamline the process, the New York DMV offers a convenient pre-screening tool. Applicants can submit their information online for review and receive feedback from the DMV, ensuring they have all necessary documentation before their in-person visit. This helps avoid multiple trips to the DMV and ensures a smoother application process.