Americans, this is for you! DMV’s Big Change: Flying Without a Real ID Will Be Impossible After This Date

Your GBBC –

Time is running out and we are getting closer to May 7th. What happens on that day? You should already know, it will be the day when having a Real ID in the United States will be mandatory to board domestic flights.

The New York Department of Motor Vehicles has reminded citizens not to wait until the last day to apply for it, that they can already do it and that it is better to do it now.

What is Real ID?

We are talking about a new type of state identification that meets all federal security standards established by Congress.

We tell you, in the wake of the September 11 attacks, Congress decided that to board airplanes or access federal spaces a specific type of identification was required (all with the goal of not happening again such an attack that shocked the entire world). So, the main objective of this new identification is to strengthen security and identity controls in very crowded places like airports.

And hurry now because starting in May, driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet these requirements will no longer be valid for travel within the country and access to government facilities such as military bases or other types of buildings.

How can I get a Real ID in New York?

It’s very easy. You can go to a DMV office (the office in charge of issuing Real IDs, as well as driver’s licenses or permits). They will issue this new document, which you can identify because it has a star in the upper right corner.

Do I have to present identification?

Of course, otherwise, how would they know it’s you? You must bring the following to your appointment with the DMV:

1. Proof of identity (a valid license, passport or birth certificate, any document that is valid because it shows your full name)
2. Your Social Security number: You must present the original Social Security card or a W-2 form showing the full number or, if you do not have a social security number, proof that you do not have one.
3. Proof of citizenship or legal status in the US: A green card, US passport or visa with legal status is required.
4. Two documents proving New York residency: Utility bills, bank statements, or mortgage documents with your current address.
5. Proof that you have changed your first or last name (if necessary)
6. Proof of name change (if applicable): In case the name does not match other documents, a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption must be presented.
7. And dress up, because they are going to take a new photo for the registry!

How long does the process take?

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The process is simple, you go, submit the documentation and in two weeks you will have your Real ID, which is why they recommend that you go now to get it done, so that you are not caught empty-handed on May 7.

In case you cannot go to a DMV office, you can apply online through their website.

What if May 7th comes and I don’t have my Real ID?

Well, you won’t be able to board domestic flights with a regular driver’s license. However, you can still use a valid passport, permanent resident card (Green Card) or other federally approved ID for the time being! Our recommendation is to get one because it doesn’t cost that much and it saves you a headache!

Remember, May 7th is the key day for the implementation of the Real ID, and without it, there will be places you will not be able to access, so apply for it now if you are planning to make a national trip!

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