MAYVILLE – There seems to be some confusion about Real ID compliant driver’s licenses. Chautauqua County Clerk Larry Barmore has issued a statement to try to simplify the issues.
“I have received many inquiries from county residents about information that they heard on news broadcasts and from TSA agents at the airport. Beginning in October, 2020, you will need either a Real ID compliant license or a passport to board an airplane for a domestic flight. As always, a passport will be required for flights out of the country,” Barmore said.
He explained that New York State currently issues three different classes of driver’s license. The standard license allows one to drive a motor vehicle and nothing else.
A Real ID license allows one to drive as well as fly domestically and enter some federal buildings.
An Enhanced driver’s license will allow holders to drive, fly domestically, enter a federal building and cross the border by car into Canada and Mexico, Barmore said.
“There are five states that offer an enhanced driver’s license, including New York and despite what many have been told by TSA agents at the airport, enhanced driver’s licenses are Real ID compliant. I have spoken to the offices of both Governor Cuomo and Senator Schumer and I was assured that the TSA has admitted that their agents are giving incorrect information and are in need of better training so that they dispense correct information concerning Real ID compliant licenses,” Barmore said.
Any county residents that normally fly domestically should go to the DMV and upgrade their license to a Real ID compliant license now, and not wait until the deadline.
Depending on the situation, it can take several months before one has the new license in possession.
To find out what documents are needed to get a Real ID compliant license, go to the NYS DMV website at www.dmv.ny.gov for a listing.
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