With the federal REAL ID compliance deadline approaching in May, Chautauqua County residents are encouraged to visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to upgrade to a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver License.

To better accommodate the anticipated increase in foot traffic, the DMV will be open for EDL/RealID upgrades only from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on select Saturdays at specific locations:

April 5 – Mayville DMV, 7 N. Erie St.

April 12 – Jamestown DMV, 512 W. 3rd St.

May 3 – Mayville DMV, 7 N. Erie St.

Beginning May 7, 2025, all travelers flying within the United States or entering secure federal facilities will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, such as a REAL ID, Enhanced Driver License, or valid U.S. passport. However, residents can still upgrade to a REAL ID even after this date.

“We want to ensure that Chautauqua County residents are fully prepared before the deadline,” said Kerri R. Smith, Motor Vehicle Administrator for Chautauqua County DMV locations. “Many people still have questions about the difference between a REAL ID and an Enhanced Driver License, and we encourage them to contact us or visit New York State’s DMV website to understand their options before heading to the DMV.”

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued identification. This means that individuals must provide certain federally required documents when applying for a REAL ID, including proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency.

A REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification that allows residents to board domestic flights and enter secure federal facilities. It cannot be used for travel across U.S. borders.

An Enhanced Driver License serves as a federally compliant REAL ID. It allows U.S. citizens to re-enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries by land or sea. It is available for an additional $30 fee beyond the standard renewal cost.

To avoid last-minute issues, Chautauqua County residents are strongly encouraged to gather their required documents ahead of time and take advantage of the DMV’s online document guide and pre-screening application tool. These resources can help ensure that applicants arrive prepared, reducing wait times and processing delays.

“Our goal is to make the transition to REAL ID as smooth as possible,” Smith added. “By offering select Saturday hours, we hope to provide residents with additional opportunities to complete the process before the deadline.”

For more details on REAL ID and Enhanced Driver Licenses, including acceptable documents and application guidance, visit: dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/enhanced-or-real-id.