REAL ID

Press Release:

Starting May 7, the federal government will enforce the REAL ID Act. On that date, you’ll need a REAL ID, Enhanced Driver License (or permit/non-driver ID) or U.S. Passport to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. The Genesee County DMV wants residents to be fully prepared and avoid last-minute surprises.

To help clarify what’s required—and what isn’t—here are answers to some of the most common questions:

1. Do I need a REAL ID if I already have a passport or an Enhanced Driver's License/Permit/Non-Driver ID?
   1. No. A valid U.S. Passport or Enhanced Driver's License/Permit/Non-Driver ID already meets federal requirements. If you have either, you are already covered and do not need a REAL ID.
2. Is May 7, a deadline to get a REAL ID?
   1. Not quite. May 7 is not a deadline, but the date enforcement begins. From that point forward, standard (non-REAL ID) licenses will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel or entry to certain federal buildings. If you don’t plan to fly or enter federal facilities, you may not need a REAL ID at all.
3. What documents do I need to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID?
   • You must bring original documentation from each of these categories:
     • Proof of Citizenship or Lawful Status
       • e.g., U.S. Birth Certificate, Valid U.S. Passport, or Permanent Resident Card
     • Proof of Identity
       • e.g., Current NYS issued document or DMV’s 6-point ID system (form ID-44)
     • Proof of Social Security Enrollment
       • e.g., Social Security Card, W-2, 1099, or pay stub (issued within 1 year with full SSN)
     • Two Proofs of NYS Residency
       • e.g., Utility bill, bank statement, mortgage deed, lease, or government-issued documents (must be from different sources and issued within one year)
     • If your legal name has changed (due to marriage, divorce, or other reason), you must bring certified proof of each name change, such as marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders.
   • Photocopies will not be accepted. Only original or certified documents are valid.
4. Who made this requirement?
   • The REAL ID Act is a federal law enacted by Congress to standardize identification nationwide. The Genesee County DMV is here to help citizens meet the requirement, but did not create the requirement.
5. What can I do to speed up my DMV visit?
   • The Genesee County DMV has been very busy as more residents prepare for the May 7 enforcement. To make the process easier:
     • Double-check your documents in advance
     • Bring original paperwork—no copies
     • Use our checklist to avoid surprises

Download a helpful document from the Genesee County DMV here: https://qrco.de/bfnU6u.