Niagara County clerks says REAL ID requirements go into effect in less than 9 months

Submitted by the Public Information Office 

Niagara County Clerk Joseph A. Jastrzemski reminded residents the federal REAL ID requirements will go into effect in May 7, 2025, less than nine months away. That means you will need a REAL ID to board any domestic flights, enter a military base and access certain federal facilities. 

“The REAL ID requirement was supposed to take effect on Oct. 1, 2020, but was postponed several times due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Jastrzemski said. “Now, we are at the point where citizens have had ample time to prepare, and the federal government is moving full speed ahead. Let me stress this means you will not be allowed to board any flight in the United States without a REAL ID beginning May 7, 2025.”

According to Jastrzemski, New York’s REAL ID license, enhanced driver’s license and a passport all meet the federal requirements. Residents do still need a passport to fly to other countries.

“People need to think about which ID is right for them,” Jastrzemski said. “I often urge people to strongly consider getting a passport, since it will cover domestic flights, trips to Canada and any other international travel. While it costs a little more than the New York State Real ID and enhanced licenses, it is good for 10 years and will meet every one of your travel needs.”

Jastrzemski said residents can visit https://dmv.ny.gov/get-enhanced-or-real-id to learn more about the different ID options. Those interested in obtaining a passport can learn more about those requirements at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/a-f/county_clerk/passport_information.php.

Jastrzemski also said New York’s compliance with the REAL ID Act’s provision for state-to-state verification is now in effect. In Niagara County, this impacts a small number of people who have a non-driver ID in New York and a driver’s license in another state. As required by REAL ID, New York has begun notifying other states of a person’s non-driver NY identification, which could lead to their driver’s license in the other state being cancelled, as many states only allow one credentialed ID. Those impacted should have received a letter from the state Department of Motor Vehicles on what they must do and, if they have not already taken action, should do so immediately.