NYS DMV Urges New Yorkers to Apply for REAL ID or Enhanced ID Ahead of 2025 Deadline

NEW YORK - The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is encouraging residents to apply for their REAL ID or Enhanced ID ahead of the May 7, 2025 deadline. The DMV has implemented an online pre-screening process to simplify the application process and help customers ensure they have the necessary documentation before visiting a DMV office.

Starting on May 7, 2025, air travelers aged 18 and older will require a REAL ID, a REAL ID-compliant document such as an Enhanced License, or a US passport to fly within the United States and enter certain federal buildings.

The online pre-screening process allows applicants to submit their DMV forms and required identification and residency documents for review prior to visiting an office. A DMV representative will then provide feedback, ensuring customers have the necessary documentation before their visit. Over 97% of applicants who have used the pre-screening process have only needed one visit to the DMV to finalize their application and have their photo taken.

DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, "The REAL ID deadline will be here before we know it, so if your license or non-driver ID is due for renewal, we want you to consider a REAL ID or Enhanced ID and avoid having to upgrade your ID in two years.”

New Yorkers renewing their license or ID can obtain a REAL ID at no additional cost, while those upgrading when not up for renewal will pay an extra $12.50. The pre-screening service is currently available in several counties, including New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Onondaga, Albany, Broome, Chautauqua, Chemung, Clinton, Erie, Niagara, Schenectady, and Wayne.

To apply for a REAL ID or Enhanced ID, customers should use the DMV Document Guide to determine the required documents, gather the necessary paperwork, and register for a NY.gov ID account to begin the online application.

For more information on REAL ID and Enhanced Driver Licenses, visit dmv.ny.gov/REALID or watch the DMV’s informational videos on YouTube. The DMV Document Guide is available to help customers identify the necessary documents for a REAL ID or Enhanced license.