Oneida Co. Clerk Encourages Enhanced Driver Licenses

May 2025

The Oneida County Clerk’s Office reminds residents that while the federal

Real ID deadline has passed, obtaining a New York State Enhanced Driver

License (EDL) remains a valuable option.

County Clerk Mary Finegan encourages residents who still need to

upgrade to schedule an appointment at their earliest convenience

Appointments for EDLs can be made by visiting the Oneida County DMV

website at https://oneidacountyny.gov/departments/motor-vehicles

Here’s a clear breakdown of the New York State (NYS) Real ID and

Enhanced License policies:

1. Standard License/ID:

 Usage: Valid for driving and ID purposes within NYS.

 Travel: Cannot be used for domestic flights or to enter federal

buildings after the TSA Real ID enforcement date (currently May 7,

2025).

 Features: Says “NOT FOR FEDERAL PURPOSES” on the card.

2. Real ID:

 Usage: Valid for driving, ID purposes, and federal use (like domestic

flights and entering federal buildings).

 Travel: Accepted at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights.

 Features: A star in the upper right corner of the card.

 Application: Requires in-person visit to the DMV with proof of identity

Ie. Birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, two proof of

residency (bank statement, credit card statement, utility bill) and if

married, certified marriage certificate.

 A STAR will appear on your license

3. Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL):

 Usage: All the same as Real ID, plus border crossing at land and sea

borders (like Canada & Mexico) without a passport.

 Travel: Valid for domestic flights, federal buildings, and border

crossings.

 Features: A U.S. flag on the card.

 Application: Requires in-person visit to the DMV with proof of identity

Ie. Birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, two proof of

residency (bank statement, credit card statement, utility bill) and if

married, certified marriage certificate.

 Cost: Usually $30 more than a standard license.

 A FLAG will appear on your license

Choosing the Right One:

 If you travel domestically by plane: Get at least a Real ID.

 If you frequently travel to Canada/Mexico by car, boat or train:

Consider an EDL.

 If you don’t fly or enter federal buildings: A Standard License may suffice .