REPORT: Majority of New Yorkers are now REAL-ID compliant since federal implementation last-year

ALBANY, NY- Over half of eligible New Yorkers statewide have become REAL-ID compliant since the federal implantation was actually cemented one-year ago.

Since that May 7 deadline in 2025, more than 8.5 million New York residents have achieved some form of REAL-ID. A REAL-ID is a federally compliant form of identification now required in order to fly in the U.S. and to enter certain facilities.

For context, a passport is also considered to be a form of REAL-ID, of which 12-million New Yorkers already have, according to the State DMV Office.

Believe it or not, the federal REAL-ID Act was first passed through Congress in 2005 and applies to all 50 states.

It establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses, permits and ID cards.

It also requires customers to bring certain documents to the DMV to prove who they are and to have a new photograph taken before their REAL ID can be issued.

“New Yorkers are ahead of the curve in getting their REAL ID so they are ready to fly this summer,” said Acting DMV Commissioner Christian Jackstadt.

“We are happy that millions of New Yorkers have visited a DMV to get their REAL ID while millions of others are prepared with a U.S. Passport. If you haven’t already obtained one, we are happy to help you and have taken steps to make your DMV visit easy and successful. Our website offers a document guide and you can pre-screen your documents in many locations, so you can come to the office fully prepared with all the information and paperwork you need.”

New York offers two types of licenses that comply with the law: a REAL ID and an Enhanced License, Permit or Non-Driver ID.

A REAL ID costs the same as a standard license; an Enhanced ID costs $30 more and can also be used as identification when returning to the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and some countries in the Caribbean.

NYS DMV image.