“The time to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID is now rather than waiting until the last minute,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder in a May 2022 press release.

“I encourage customers to visit our website, social media pages, or talk to our staff at the airports to find out what they need to apply for a REAL ID or Enhanced ID so they can be successful on their first visit to a DMV office,” he said.

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses, permits and ID cards. The Act also prohibits federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), from accepting cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.

Beginning on May 3, 2023, the federal government will require your driver license, permit, or ID card to be REAL ID compliant if you wish to use it as identification to board a domestic flight (within the U.S.) or enter military bases and certain federal facilities.

You can get a REAL ID at any time, but you will need to go to a DMV Office. You cannot get a REAL ID online, by phone, or through mail.

You MUST bring to the office the following original or certified proof documents:

• Proof of identity, such as a valid license, birth certificate or passport, with your full first, middle (if applicable) and last name. This name, as it appears on your proof of identity, will be displayed on your card as required by federal law.
• Proof of Social Security Number or Social Security Number ineligibility.  If you have a valid NY license, permit or ID card, you must bring your original social security card or W-2 with full SSN.  If you do not have a New York State driver license or identification card, you must bring your Social Security Card or a letter from the Social Security Administration proving your ineligibility to have a social security number.  If you lost your Social Security Card, you must get a duplicate before you come to the DMV. The Social Security Administration website has more information on obtaining a duplicate card.
• Proof of your date of birth.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency or temporary lawful status in the U.S.
• Two different proofs of New York State residence such as utility bill, bank statement or mortgage statement (P.O. Box not acceptable). This address will be displayed on your card.
• If the name on your license, permit, or non-driver ID application does not match the name on your identity, lawful status, and social security proofs you must bring in court or government issued proof(s) documenting the event(s) causing your name change(s) such as a marriage license(s), divorce decree(s), adoption, or court order document(s).

The application process also requires the DMV to take a new photo.

Read the DMV’s press release for more information.