The REAL ID deadline is just one month away, and there could be serious consequences if you’re planning to travel without one. NYS DMV is strongly encouraging everyone to act fast and make their REAL ID appointments as soon as possible.
DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said:
“We want to make sure all New Yorkers are REAL ID compliant as soon as possible…I’m encouraging all New Yorkers to make your appointment today and to check out our online resources that can help you prepare your REAL ID application. We want every DMV visit to be a one and done, whether you visit us on a Saturday or during the week.”
When is the REAL ID deadline?
Americans will need a REAL ID or a REAL ID-compliant document to board domestic flights starting May 7th, 2025.
What if I don’t have a REAL ID or passport?
According to Homeland Security, American travelers who do not have a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant document (like a passport) by the deadline will not be able to get through airport security.
If you need help applying for your first passport, you can learn how to here.
Can I still travel in the U.S. without a REAL ID?
If you do not have a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant document by May 7th, 2025, you cannot travel within the U.S. by air. However, standard licenses or IDs will still be valid for travel via car or train, without needing a REAL ID or REAL ID-compliant document.
Is the REAL ID mandatory in the U.S.?
REAL IDs will be mandatory for air travel.
Where can I get a REAL ID?
Travelers can get a REAL ID at their local DMV. To accommodate the urgent need of REAL IDs, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is offering special Saturday morning hours at participating DMVs on NYC and Long Island specifically to help.
New Yorkers can apply for or upgrade their current ID to a REAL ID from April 5th to June 28th on Saturdays between 8am and 1pm at these District Offices:
- Yonkers District Office
- Bronx District Office
- Harlem District Office
- Midtown District Office
- Richmond District Office
- Brooklyn Atlantic District Office
- Coney Island District Office
- College Point District Office
- Garden City District Office
- Medford District Office
Learn even more about REAL IDs on the TSA’s website.