Governor Kathy Hochul is urging the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to deploy more Transportation Security Officers at New York’s busiest airports ahead of the May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement deadline.
Starting May 7, standard driver’s licenses will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel. Travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant document such as an Enhanced ID, U.S. Passport, or Passport Card to board flights within the United States.
Hochul calls for additional TSA personnel
To prevent delays and safety concerns, Hochul sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas requesting a surge of TSA staff at John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport. Last year, the two airports handled more than 96 million passengers combined, making preparation critical.
“Ahead of the May 7 deadline for airline passengers to provide REAL ID-compliant identification, it is critical that travelers in the nation’s busiest airports continue to experience safe and efficient service,” Hochul said.
New York prepares for REAL ID transition
The state has expanded DMV appointment availability, extended office hours, and launched an extensive outreach campaign. New Yorkers are encouraged to use the DMV’s online document guide and application pre-screening tool to prepare before visiting a DMV office.
Residents who are not traveling soon or whose licenses are not expiring immediately are asked to delay their DMV visits to prioritize those with urgent travel needs.
What travelers need to know before May 7
Travelers without a REAL ID or other compliant identification risk being denied entry at TSA checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration accepts several federally recognized IDs, but a compliant document will be mandatory for anyone 18 or older traveling by air within the U.S.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey advises travelers to:
- Check security wait times before heading to the airport.
- Arrive early to accommodate identity verification and potential delays.
- Bring a U.S. Passport if available, which is a compliant alternative.
- Secure a REAL ID or Enhanced ID as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.
Children under 18 are not required to show identification when traveling with an adult, but airlines may have their own policies.
DMV tips for obtaining a REAL ID
- Use the DMV’s online Document Guide to confirm required paperwork.
- Complete the pre-screening tool to streamline the process.
- Schedule an appointment well in advance of upcoming flights.
- Ensure current IDs are checked for a star or flag, which indicates REAL ID compliance.
There is no additional cost for upgrading to a REAL ID beyond the standard renewal fee.
Officials emphasize urgency
Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said they are working closely with TSA and airport operators to minimize disruption.
DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder added, “There’s no need to rush to a DMV office if you aren’t traveling soon or your ID isn’t expiring. DMV will continue issuing REAL IDs and Enhanced IDs after May 7.”
State leaders including Senator Jeremy Cooney and Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli are also encouraging New Yorkers to act now to avoid travel disruptions.
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