REAL ID-Compliant Identification Will be Required Beginning May 7, 2025
Erie County, NY – Erie County Clerk Michael P. Kearns is reminding residents that the deadline to obtain an Enhanced or REAL ID is May 7, 2025. This form of identification is necessary to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings, including military bases, unless you possess a valid U.S. passport or another federally accepted form of identification.
To assist residents in obtaining a REAL ID, Kearns will host information sessions and extend hours at the Erie County Auto Bureau, located at 2122 George Urban Blvd. in Depew. These sessions will answer questions, explain the required documents, and issue REAL ID documents to those ready to meet the new requirements ahead of the May 7 deadline. They have the option of an Enhanced Driver License (EDL), a REAL ID version, or can choose to maintain a Standard ID or Driver’s License
The REAL ID events will take place on select Tuesdays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM: February 18, March 11, April 8, and May 6, as well as Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM: February 22, March 22, April 12, and May 3. Individuals have the opportunity to select from a variety of identification options: an Enhanced Driver License (EDL), a REAL ID version, or a Standard ID or Driver’s License. Choosing the right option can enhance your travel experience and ensure compliance with the latest identification requirements.
Don’t miss out! Anyone interested in obtaining their REAL ID during these extended hours events must make a reservation at erie.gov/clerk or call the Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864. The informational portion of the events is free and open to the public. Appointments are not required for the Q&A portion.
“We want the public to choose the document that best suits their needs and time is ticking. Many people have questions and we hope these Q&A and Extended Hours events give them the opportunity in obtaining which ID is right for them, as there are options,” Kearns stated. “While REAL IDs are not necessary for driving, not having the star or U.S. flag on your ID may lead to security issues or delays for domestic airline travelers,” he added.
Upgrading to a REAL ID or EDL during the renewal period incurs no additional costs. However, when processed outside of the renewal period, the fees are $12.50 for a REAL ID and $42.50 for an EDL. An Enhanced Driver’s License or non-driver EDL incurs an extra fee of $30. Please note that neither the REAL ID nor the Enhanced versions can be used for international travel; a valid U.S. Passport book is required for all overseas flights to foreign countries.
To learn more about the REAL ID Act and review the list of acceptable documents needed to meet the new compliance standards, or to schedule a future appointment online, please visit erie.gov/clerk.
