
Ready To Fly In 2025? Do You Have A REAL ID Or Enhanced License?
Up until a little over four years ago, I had not flown on a plane for somewhere between 10 and 15 years. I didn't have any future plans or desire to fly anywhere.
But that changed when I had a couple of business-related trips that would require flying, and I heard about the REAL ID and a possible deadline to upgrade my New York State License to a Real ID license, I got it taken care of when my license was about to expire.
My wife had no interest in doing the same since we weren't planning on any vacation trips that would require flying. Again, that changed. In the past two years, I've flown to Florida four times, and my wife, three times.
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The Deadline Date is Fast Approaching
Well, the time has come to get this taken care of, not only for my wife but anyone who plans on flying domestically this year and beyond who does not have a REAL ID or Enhanced License. We were reminded several times over our recent trip to Florida, noticing signs at every airport we flew in and out of.
As of this writing, on May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be at least REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and even access certain federal facilities according to the TSA. There had been talk that the TSA might delay the date, but even so, a passenger without a REAL ID could end up facing airport screening delays.
If you are not sure you have a REAL ID already, according to the NYS DMV:
If your New York State license or ID does not have a star or a flag on it, then you do not have a REAL ID-compliant document. - NYS DMV
Be Prepared Before You Head To The DMV
Now, if you have a valid Passport, a REAL ID will not be required. The NYS DMV notes that you will need certain documentation, like a utility bill, a Social Security card and/or other documents.
You may be required to bring along a certified copy of your birth and marriage certificates. Be prepared before you go, otherwise you may be standing in a long line for nothing at the DMV, and nobody wants that!
For more information and to be prepared, visit this NYS DMV REAL ID/Enhanced ID information website.
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