New York state pushes citizens to get REAL ID

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles today launched a REAL ID public awareness campaign and urged New Yorkers to get REAL IDs now. According to the federal REAL ID Act, those wishing to fly within the U.S. using their New York State-issued license or ID card will need a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver License (EDL) starting October 1, 2020. DMV encourages everyone who is renewing or obtaining a license or non-driver ID for the first time to get a REAL ID.

“REAL ID is available at all DMV offices statewide and we encourage you to get your new license or non-driver ID today, especially if you are renewing or applying for the first time,” said DMV Executive Deputy Commissioner Terri Egan. “Getting a new REAL ID requires an office visit, and we expect lines to grow as the deadline approaches. Don’t delay – get your REAL ID today!”

This summer, DMV will launch a statewide promotional tour, including a broad social media campaign, to educate New Yorkers about the new federally-required licenses and non-driver IDs. DMV representatives will be on-hand at certain events throughout the season to help New Yorkers who want to obtain a REAL ID prepare for their office visit and answer any questions they may have. DMV staff will also be available at Albany International Airport during peak travel times to provide information about the REAL ID to travelers. DMV plans to expand this service to additional airports later this year.

To ensure customers have all the documents they need for their visit, DMV has created a document guide that will walk customers through what they need to bring and provides an option to print the list for the customer’s added convenience. A trip to your local DMV office to get a new photo taken and present documents that prove your full legal name and New York State residency, among other things, is required by federal regulations. The cost to get a REAL ID is the same as getting a standard New York State license or non-driver ID, which are now marked Not for Federal Purposes.

DMV has also created a video highlighting the differences between the REAL ID, the Enhanced Driver License, and the standard New York State license and non-driver ID. A second video is being utilized in State DVM offices, at travel hubs throughout the state, and on social media to raise awareness.

About the REAL ID Act

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.