Anyone 18 years and older will be required to have a REAL ID, Enhanced License or ID or other acceptable form of identification. In addition to a state-issued ID, the Transportation Security Administration will accept more than one dozen types of identification after the REAL ID Act becomes enforceable on May 7.

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 TSA, from accepting cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.

In addition, DMV will continue to offer appointments for REAL ID and Enhanced documents after the May 7 deadline. Whether customers need to get one now depends on how soon they plan to take a domestic flight or whether they need to enter certain federal buildings.

“As the deadline to get a REAL gets closer, take a moment to think about when you next plan to travel on a plane within the U.S.,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder. “Once you visit our office and complete the paperwork, it takes about two weeks to get your new license. Give yourself time to get the REAL ID before your next flight. You do not have to rush to a DMV office to get one before May 7 if you’re not planning to fly soon. You will be able to get one after the deadline.”

The federal law requires customers to bring specific documents to the DMV to prove who they are before their REAL ID or Enhanced ID can be issued.A new photograph must also be taken.

Failure to have a REAL ID-compliant document on or after May 7 could result in additional screening, delays at airports or being denied access to a flight.

Many DMV offices strongly encourage customers to make a reservation, which can be done online, and some require them. To assist New Yorkers, the DMV developed an online document guide so you can determine what proof you have and print a checklist. Some DMV offices also have an online application pre-screening process where you can have your documents reviewed in advance to be certain you have everything.

DMV is also advising New Yorkers to avoid common mistakes that can stymie their REAL ID application, such as failing to provide proof of their full, legal name. Customers who changed their name due to marriage, divorce or other circumstances need to provide documentation of those name changes.

In addition to the REAL ID, which costs the same as renewing a standard license, the DMV offers an Enhanced ID for an additional $30. The Enhanced ID meets federal REAL ID standards 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. A passport is also acceptable as a REAL ID-compliant document.

A REAL ID has a star on it, an Enhanced ID has an American flag, and a standard license has neither and says “Not for Federal Purposes” on it.

A REAL ID is optional and is not needed for the following:

– Being licensed to drive

– Voting or registering to vote

– Entering Federal facilities that do not require a person to present identification

– Applying for or receiving Federal benefits

– Accessing health or life-preserving services (including hospitals and health clinics), law enforcement, or constitutionally protected activities (including a defendant’s access to court proceedings)

– Participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigations

Starting on May 7, a REAL ID or an Enhanced license will also be required to enter federal buildings, military bases and nuclear power plants.

For more information about REAL ID and Enhanced Driver Licenses, visit https://tinyurl.com/7y4uuyj2 and watchDMV’s REAL ID instructional video on YouTube.