Real ID vs Enhanced ID: What if you don't have a driver's license?

Real ID deadline on May 7

The May 7 deadline to get your Real ID is fast approaching—and if you don’t have one, you’ll need a passport to fly within the U.S. or enter federal buildings. But is it too late to book a DMV appointment? Fox 5’s Jessica Formoso went searching for answers.

NEW YORK - We are a week away before the U.S. Department of Homeland Security begins enforcing the Real ID requirement.

DEADLINE FOR REAL ID: START DATE l WHAT IS IT? l REQUIREMENTS l APPOINTMENTS

Starting next Wednesday, May 7, anyone flying domestically or entering secure federal facilities in the United States will need a Real ID, Enhanced ID or passport.

When do you need Real ID to fly?

The backstory:

In 2022, the DHS announced an extension of the deadline until May 7, 2025.

This means, starting May 7, a Real ID, or other federally approved identification, will be necessary to board domestic flights.

What is a Real ID?

Big picture view:

Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards following a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission.

Older IDs will be suitable to allow people to drive, buy liquor or other age-regulated products, and gamble at casinos. Travelers can also use military IDs or passports to access flights and federal facilities.

Documents needed for Real ID

What we know:

To apply for a REAL ID, travelers should visit their local DMV office, and fill out the online application and upload their documents. Customers must visit a DMV office and bring their uploaded documents to complete the application.

At a minimum, you must provide documentation showing:

Full legal name
Date of birth
Social security number
Two proofs of your address of principal residence
Lawful status

For more information, click HERE.

Do you need a Real ID to fly in the US?

According to the DHS, U.S. travelers must obtain a Real ID to board flights within the United States and access certain federal facilities.

If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your Real ID or another acceptable alternative, such as a passport – not both.

For more information, and what documentation is needed, click HERE.

Do I need a Real ID to travel internationally?

If you are traveling internationally, you will still need your passport.

The Real ID does not replace a passport for international travel, but it does ensure that you can continue flying within the U.S. and access secure federal locations without additional documentation.

Enhanced ID vs Real ID

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) are considered acceptable alternatives to Real ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.

What does a Real ID look like?

Most EDLs do not contain the star marking and this is acceptable.

For a detailed comparison of which ID is right for you, click HERE.

What happens if you don't have a driver's license?

Anyone who does not have a driver's license can apply for a non-driver photo ID card, also known as a New York State ID. People need to complete form "MV-44" and provide proof of identity and birth date (birth certificate and Social Security Card) to apply.

In addition, you must apply for an original non-driver ID in a DMV office. It cannot be done online, by mail or by phone.

For more information, click HERE.

Can you use passport instead of Real ID?

What they're saying:

"If you have a passport, you're fine. That's a strong, valid credential. And you can use that," said Robert Sinclair Jr., senior manager of Public Affairs at AAA Northeast. "If you want to fly without the passport, then you have to have that Real ID domestically."

Tuesday on Good Day New York, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy discussed Real ID.