What Forms of ID You Need to Travel After May 7, 2025
Published on April 28, 2025
The Tompkins County Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) informs the public that after May 7, 2025, U.S. citizens and New York State residents can no longer use a standard driver's license to board a domestic flight within the U.S. You will need either a REAL ID License/ID or a New York State Enhanced License/ID. If you are unsure what type of ID you have, check the top right corner for a star (REAL ID) or a flag (Enhanced). A standard license will instead have a ‘not for federal purposes’ imprint. There are different ID options to consider depending on the type of travel you are planning. For more detailed information call the DMV office at (607) 273-7187 or stop by at 301 Third Street in Ithaca.
Domestic flight within the U.S.
After May 7, 2025, only a REAL ID or a NYS Enhanced License will be accepted for domestic air travel. REAL ID acceptable documents are driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver’s license is not an acceptable form of identification. To obtain a REAL ID license at your local DMV office, documents that show proof of residency, citizenship, and a social security number must be presented. There is a $12.50 transaction fee.
There is a $30 charge for an Enhanced License (in addition to a $12.50 transaction fee). To obtain an Enhanced License, proof of citizenship must be shown. The name that appears on your documents will be used on your Enhanced License. If you had a name change (marriage, divorce), original or certified copies documenting that change are required, which is an extra step with additional costs in the process. Only five states (including New York State) have adopted Enhanced Licenses so far, which can lead to questions from TSA agents at airports who might not be familiar with them. It can be useful to have Homeland Security information with you that explains Enhanced Licenses.
Examples of acceptable documentation and how to acquire it for Real ID and Enhanced Licenses can be found on the DMV REAL ID webpage.
A U.S. Passport Card is also acceptable for domestic travel after May 7, 2025. This can be a good option for individuals who have had multiple name changes and may find it challenging to gather all the necessary documents required for obtaining a REAL ID or Enhanced License. The cost for first-time applicants is $65 for adults. To learn more about Passport Cards, visit the U.S. Department of State website.
Cross the U.S. border from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries (by land or sea only)
The NYS Enhanced License provides the added benefit of being an acceptable proof of identity and citizenship for these travel routes. This is a low-cost option for entering these countries in a vehicle, in addition to serving as a permit to drive.
A U.S. Passport Card can also be used to cross the U.S. border from Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean by land or sea only.
International travel by air, sea, or land
A U.S. passport is required for international air travel and can also be used for domestic flights and international sea and land travel. The cost for first-time applicants is $165 for adults. Detailed requirements on how to apply for a passport in Tompkins County can be found on the DMV passport webpage.