In response to the federal REAL ID Act mandate, Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara has introduced a bill aimed at waiving all fees associated with upgrading to a REAL ID for New York State residents. The bill, designed to help New Yorkers comply with federal identification requirements, removes financial barriers for this added expense.

Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. residents will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. However, the cost of upgrading to a REAL ID in New York can be a burden, especially for those whose licenses don’t expire before this deadline and would face an extra fee.

“As inflation continues to impact household budgets across New York, many residents are finding it difficult to keep up with added expenses. The cost of a REAL ID upgrade is yet another financial strain for many,” said Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara. “This bill provides a practical solution by waiving upgrade fees, making it easier for all New Yorkers to obtain a REAL ID without financial hardship.”

Assemblyman Santabarbara’s proposal recognizes the economic reality faced by many families and individuals. With rising costs across the board, even a relatively small expense can deter people from securing the identification they need. The fee waiver would make REAL ID upgrades accessible to all New Yorkers, regardless of income level, supporting them through the transition to federally compliant identification.

The proposed legislation would amend the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law, eliminating fees associated with REAL ID upgrades regardless of a license or ID’s expiration status. Additionally, by removing financial obstacles to obtaining a REAL ID, the bill aims to reduce last-minute surges at DMV offices, thereby enhancing efficiency and minimizing processing delays as the federal deadline approaches.

“This initiative is about ensuring that no one in our state is left behind due to cost when it comes to complying with federal identification requirements,” Assemblyman Santabarbara added. “Our goal is to help residents meet the deadline smoothly and affordably while supporting our community’s financial well-being.”

The bill has already received positive feedback from community members who recognize the importance of affordability in these challenging economic times. Assemblyman Santabarbara hopes to move this bill forward with bipartisan support to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to the ID they need without added financial stress.