DMV has greatly expanded the availability of an online pre-screening tool for REAL ID and Enhanced ID applications, so more customers are assured that their applications are accurate and complete before going to a DMV office to submit documents and get their photo taken. Customers who visit a DMV office in 30 different counties can now take advantage of the pre-screening option. Those who visit DMV offices outside of the 30 participating counties can still use the same pre-screening tool to make sure they have the right documents before they come to the DMV.
“One and done, that’s what we’re aiming for,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder.“This process is extremely successful. Almost all the applicants who have used it – more than 97 percent – have been able to make only one visit to a DMV to finalize the application and get their photo taken. Here at DMV, we are reexamining and improving nearly every transaction so customers can get their business done faster and easier.”
DMV is encouraging New Yorkers to get their REAL IDs now or when they renew their IDs so they meet the federal REAL ID enforcement deadline of May 7, 2025. At that time, anyone 18 and older who plans to fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings will need a REAL ID or a REAL ID-compliant document such as an Enhanced ID or a US passport. New Yorkers whose license or ID is up for renewal can get a REAL ID at no additional cost beyond the renewal fee. If you want to upgrade before it is time to renew, the cost is an extra $12.50.
DMV’s online pre-screening process enables applicants to submit their REAL ID or Enhanced ID applications and proofs of identification and residency documents to DMV prior to visiting an office. A DMV representative reviews the paperwork for completeness and accuracy and sends feedback to the customer, so they know if they have everything they need before they visit an office. (Customers will need to register for an NY.gov ID account, or use an existing account, to begin the online application).
The REAL ID pre-screening transaction has been rolled out in offices in the counties of: Albany, Broome, Bronx, Chautauqua, Chemung, Clinton, Columbia, Dutchess, Erie, Franklin, Kings, Madison, Nassau, New York, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Orange, Oswego, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, St. Lawrence, Suffolk, Tompkins, Wayne and Westchester.
Customers in counties not participating in the prescreening still have the benefit of using the same online tool to identify documents they will need to bring to the DMV and they may use some features to confirm they have the correct documents.
Similar pre-screening tools are also available online for people exchanging out-of-state licenses and for those applying for non-driver IDs.
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