New Yorkers with enhanced driver licenses don’t need to switch to a REAL ID, despite some confusion at airports, according to officials. The enhanced version already satisfies federal requirements under the REAL ID Act.
Keville said travelers have reported TSA agents wrongly insisting they upgrade, likely due to a lack of training. Unlike most states, New York’s enhanced ID shows a U.S. flag but not the star symbol TSA agents typically look for, which has caused misunderstanding.
State DMV officials say the enhanced license is fully compliant and clearly marked. They’ve worked with TSA on this issue, but travelers may still face hiccups until agents are better informed.
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