Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns and Niagara County Clerk Joe Jastrzemski are trying to spread awareness of the REAL ID Act.
- New Yorkers need REAL ID for domestic travel by October 1, 2020
- Passport and enhanced license are accepted alternatives
- REAL ID does not work for international travel
They spoke to travelers on Monday at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
By October 1, 2020, New Yorkers will be required to have an ID that meets increased federal security standards if they want to fly domestically the same way they currently do.
“If you show up at the airport starting October 1, 2020, without a REAL ID, your screening process is going to be significantly longer than what the other passengers will experience,” said NFTA Aviation Director Bill Vanecek.
If you are renewing your standard New York State driver's license, you will receive a REAL ID at no additional charge.
If you are not up for renewal, you can get your license amended for $12.50.
While the REAL ID ensures smooth domestic travel, it does not for international travel.
"Your enhanced driver's license will get you over to Canada. Your REAL ID driver's license will not get you over to Canada," Jastrzemski said.
If you have an enhanced license or a passport, you do not need a REAL ID.
Kearns says he believes the additional $30 that upgrades the standard license to an enhanced license is worth the money.
Both he and Jastrzemski say they have added additional hours at their auto bureaus, with the REAL ID change in mind.
They recommend making a reservation before coming in.
"If you're ready when you come in, and you make a reservation, you're gonna have a much smoother time and you'll get an express number," Kearns said.
Children under the age of 17 do not need a REAL ID when travelling with a companion.
Kearns says his office plans to hold 250 community events to further raise awareness.