REAL ID Now Effective

If it feels like you have been hearing about the REAL ID for a few decades now, it’s because you have. Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, Congress passed the 2005 REAL ID Act to help bolster federal security. In the twenty years since the act passed, Americans have dealt with a push and pull of phases, enforcement, and state buy-in. However, beginning this past Wednesday, May 7th 2025, a federally compliant REAL ID will be needed to board any domestic flights and enter Federal buildings or military bases. If you would like to fly domestically, you will need either a passport or a federally compliant REAL ID. 

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. 

While the TSA will no longer accept non-REAL ID identification to board flights, they will be accepting passports. The closest Rockland REAL ID DMV location is at 45 South RTE 9W, Suite 50, West Haverstraw, NY 10993. Appointments are highly recommended as DMVs all over the country are being hit with high volumes of people seeking to obtain a REAL ID. Should you arrive at a DMV location and the office is already experiencing long wait times, only those with previous appointments will be allowed access. Appointments can be made at dmv.ny.gov or by calling 718-477-4820.