If you’re a New Yorker, you’ve probably heard about the REAL ID, a new(ish) form of identification that you will need to have if you wish to travel in 2025 and beyond.
And although the deadline date has been pushed back a few times, starting May 7th, 2025, New Yorkers will need this brand new card to fly domestically in the United States. This means your standard license will not allow you on a plane after this date!
If this affects you and your travel plans, you will have to get a REAL ID, or you could get an enhanced license instead.
But what’s the difference?
In this guide, we break down all everything you need to know about both the REAL ID and enhanced licenses, so you can properly choose which best fits you and your travel plans!
What is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID is an identification card that dates back to 2005, and its purpose for creation was to meet federal security standards for identification, primarily for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
Beginning on May 7, 2025, any New Yorkers who are 18 years or older must have a REAL ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility.
REAL IDs look very similar to standard drivers licenses and ID cards, however they feature a black star on the top right corner which differentiates it.
To acquire the new REAL ID, it’s completely free to do; however you must do it in-person at a New York State DMV.
Once you make a reservation at the DMV, you can upgrade free of charge. Keep in mind that a new photograph will be taken and that you must bring documents to prove your identity (see the requirements below).
Be mindful that you won’t get your exact REAL ID that day as it will be mailed to you in the coming weeks. A temporary REAL ID will be issued.
What is an Enhanced License?
An enhanced license is essentially a REAL ID-compliant card that also allows border crossings by land or sea into Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries.
These types of cards look similar to both regular licenses/IDs and REAL IDs, except they feature an American flag in the top right corner.
Enhanced licenses will serve you the same purpose as REAL IDs in terms of being able to fly on domestic flights, but they also give you the extra OK to enter Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean (but not via plane).
Similar to REAL IDs, you must acquire one in-person at a DMV office. They cost $30 extra than a typical REAL ID.
Do I really need to get a REAL ID or Enhanced License?
Technically no, but you should.
Technically, standard driver’s licenses and non-driver ID cards remain valid for driving and general identification purposes, however if you plan on traveling at all in the future via airplane you will need to get one of these.
In simpler terms, if you don’t plan on flying domestically or driving to Canada anytime soon, there’s no immediate need to upgrade to a REAL ID or EDL. However, if you are doing that…upgrade.
Additionally, if you already have a valid U.S. passport, Global Entry card, U.S. Department of Defense ID, federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID, transportation worker credential, or U.S. Merchant Mariner credential, you won’t need a REAL ID or EDL for travel purposes.
It’s also worth noting that a REAL ID is not required for voting or registering to vote; applying for federal benefits; accessing healthcare services (including hospitals); attending court proceedings; or participating in law enforcement investigations.
That said, the New York State DMV (and us here at Secret NYC) still strongly suggest applying for a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License now to prepare for future travel needs.
What requirements do I need to get REAL ID/Enhanced License?
In order to obtain a brand new REAL ID or enhanced license, you will have to bring certain documents to the DMV when you go.
To get approved, you need to provide proof of identity, date of birth, Social Security number (or ineligibility), U.S. citizenship or lawful status, and two proofs of New York State residency. See more details:
Proof of Identity
- A valid, unexpired U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other proof of legal presence.
- This document must show your full legal name (first, middle, and last) as it will appear on your license.
Proof of Social Security Number (or Ineligibility):
- If you have a Social Security number, you’ll need to provide your original Social Security card or a W-2 form with your full SSN.
- If you are Social Security number ineligible, you’ll need to provide documentation proving that.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Temporary Lawful Status:
- A valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other acceptable document.
Two Proofs of New York State Residency:
- These documents must show your current New York State address and must not be older than one year.
- Accepted documents:
- A New York State license, permit, or non-driver ID card.
- A recent bank statement, pay stub, or utility bill.
- A mortgage statement.
- Certain electronic documents if printed, including a utility bill, credit card statement, or pay stub.