Deadline to get a Real ID less than year away
With just under a year until the Real ID requirement goes into effect, the clock is ticking for New Yorkers to update their license and identification.
The U.S. began issuing Real ID compliant documents in 2017. The federal government is expected to start enforcing Real ID on May 7, 2025.
At that time, people will need either a federally compliant Real ID or a valid passport to fly domestically and enter certain federal facilities.
The start date for the requirement of Real IDs was initially supposed to take place in 2021, but the deadline was extended several times to due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Real ID can also be used to enter certain federal buildings or military bases.
It does not count as valid identification to cross into Mexico or Canada. Real ID is marked with a star in the top right corner.
New Yorkers who already have an enhanced driver’s license do not also need to obtain a Real ID to fly domestically or enter federal buildings or military bases.
Residents can get a Real ID at any time, but must go into a DMV office in person. You cannot get a Real ID by phone or mail, or online. Appointments are required to get a Real ID, and can be made locally at monroecounty.gov/ dmv. The locations include:
● Greece - 152 Greece Ridge Center inside The Mall at Greece Ridge
● Henrietta - 1225 Jefferson Road.
● Rochester - 200 E. Main St. (downtown)
The Irondequoit DMV on Titus Avenue closed in March and a new branch has not yet reopened in its place.
Same-day appointments are often available at Monroe County DMV branches.