2025 is the Year of the REAL ID

If it feels like you have been hearing about REAL ID for a few decades now, that’s because you have. Following the terror attacks of 9/11, Congress passed the 2005 REAL ID Act to help increase federal security. In the twenty years since the act passed, Americans have dealt with a push and pull of phases, enforcements, and state buy-in. However, beginning May 7th, 2025, a federally compliant REAL ID will be needed to board any domestic flights and enter Federal buildings or military bases. Making the switch from a standard license to a REAL ID requires a bit of paperwork.

New York residents will need

– Proof of Identity

– A valid passport, U.S. birth certificate, or another form of identification that displays your full name and date of birth

– Proof of Social Security Number, Social Security card, W-2, or tax return

– Proof of New York Residency

– Two different forms that prove your current New York address, such as a utility bill, a residential lease, or a bank statement

– Current driver’s license

If your name is different from the name listed on your birth certificate, make sure to bring an original copy of your marriage license, divorce decree, or the court order documents. Typically, New York residents are only allowed to renew their licenses within twelve months before the expiration date. This does not apply to REAL ID. There are no additional fees to get a REAL ID, but residents will need to pay the standard license fee. These fees vary per person and can be checked at dmv.ny.gov. If you are unsure if you have a REAL ID or not, check the upper right corner of your license for a star inside a black circle. The REAL IDs are optional, and are not required for being licensed to drive, voting or registering to vote, applying for or receiving Federal benefits, or participating in law enforcement proceedings. The TSA will no longer accept non-REAL ID identification, but they will be accepting passports.

Rather than carry around your passport for a trip to Miami, make the switch now to avoid the last-minute craze in April.. The closest Rockland location is at 45 South RTE 9W, Suite 50, West Haverstraw, NY 10993. Appointments can be made at dmv.ny.gov or by calling 718-477-4820