REAL ID Deadline is Coming: What NJ and NYC Travelers Need to Know Before Flying
Starting May 7, 2025, domestic air travel rules are changing for New Jersey and New York residents. If you’re planning to board a flight next year using just your driver’s license, you’ll need to make sure it’s REAL ID-compliant—or risk being turned away at TSA.
Here’s what you need to know, what steps to take now, and how it could impact your next ride to the airport with CJT.
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act is a federal law passed after 9/11 to set stronger security standards for state-issued identification. Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 and older will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification—like a valid U.S. passport—to board domestic flights.
This rule applies to every state, but if you’re flying out of EWR, JFK, or LGA, it’s especially important to make sure your license is up to date.
How to Know If You Have a REAL ID
Most REAL IDs have a star in the top corner—usually gold or black, depending on your state. If your license says “Not for REAL ID purposes” or lacks a star entirely, you’ll need to upgrade.
For New Jersey Residents
The NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) has been issuing REAL IDs for a few years now. To upgrade your license, you’ll need to make an in-person appointment and bring specific documents with you.
➡️ Check what documents you need and make an appointment here.
Tip: Appointments tend to fill up quickly, so don’t wait until the last minute—especially if you plan to travel in summer or during the holidays.
For New York Residents
REAL IDs are also available through the NY Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You’ll need to go in person (you can’t get a REAL ID online) and bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and residency.
➡️ Learn more about REAL ID requirements in New York.
Just like in NJ, your upgraded license will have a star marking it as TSA-approved for domestic flights.
Why This Matters for CJT Travelers
At Central Jersey Transportation, we serve customers headed to Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia every day. And while we make sure your ride to the airport is smooth, we’ve seen travelers held up at security because they didn’t realize their ID didn’t meet the new rules.
We don’t want that to happen to you.
That’s why we’re encouraging all our riders to check their license now. You don’t need to wait for a renewal date—upgrading to a REAL ID early can save you a major headache down the road.
Plan Ahead—Travel Easier
Airports are stressful enough. The last thing you need is a surprise at security. Whether you’re heading off on vacation or a business trip, having the right ID means one less thing to worry about.
At CJT, we’re here to help make your trip seamless from the moment you leave your doorstep. We’ll handle the traffic—you handle the ID.
Need to book your next airport ride? We’ve got you covered—contact us today> and travel with peace of mind.