
The Real Deadline For Your New York State Real ID
You may have heard all of this talk about your New York Driver's license needing to be a Real ID or Enhanced in order for you to travel. The question is, have you been paying attention?
I will admit that I have not. I would hear about how you need to make sure you have the right version of your license to travel but have you heard that the deadline is now going to be enforced?
What Is the Deadline For Getting a New York State Real ID or Enhanced License
Not having the want, need or money to travel out of the county or by plane since 2020 when I got my driver's license renewed I wasn't concerned about having one that was considered a "Real ID" or Enhanced. I also happen to be a person who currently doesn't have a valid passport. So basically I am stuck in the 48 States after May 7th, 2025.
Beginning on May 7, 2025, the federal government will require your driver license, permit or ID card to be REAL ID compliant if you wish to use it as identification to board a domestic flight (within the U.S.), or enter military bases and certain federal facilities. (via clerk.ulstercountyny.gov)
How Do I Get My New York State License Upgrade to Real ID or Enhanced
Why I don't have an Enhanced ID at the moment isn't really my fault. You see, my driver's license expired during the COVID shutdown, so I could only renew it online. You can't upgrade your license from the old to the new Real ID or Enhanced ID online. That is something you need to do in person, which I will admit I have yet to do.
SEE ALSO: The 2025 Planet Parade in the Night Sky
This is going to be a problem sooner than later and I don't want to be one of those people who can't get on a plane, or worse one of the people waiting in line at the DMV on May 6th, 2025 so my plan is to get to the DMV before the deadline.
And just so you know everything I read says you have to go to the DMV. No online applications are available and the mobile unit can't upgrade from a standard license, and with the enhanced you are going to need to pay a fee. The DMV spells out everything at dmv.ny.gov
Here is what you are going to need: Follow the link for the New York State DMV or click on your county link if it is below.
Get your Real ID by May 7th, 2025 in Ulster County, NY
Get your Real ID by May7th, 2025 in Dutchess County, NY
Get your Real ID by May 7th, 2025 in Orange County, NY
Get your Real ID by May 7th, 2025 in Sullivan County, NY

Hudson Valley Roads That Are Accident Prone
Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn
Extra Fees All New Yorkers Hate Paying
Gallery Credit: CJ/Canva
More From 97.7/97.3 The Wolf








