MAYVILLE, NY – 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 (EDL).
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.
“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.
Understanding the Difference: REAL ID vs. Enhanced Driver License (EDL)
REAL ID: 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.
Enhanced Driver License (EDL): In addition to serving as a federally compliant REAL ID, an EDL 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. “We urge residents to review the documentation checklist and schedule their visit to one of our DMV offices before the deadline to prevent any disruption to their travel plans.”
Chautauqua County DMV Office Locations & Contact Information
Jamestown DMV
512 W. 3rd St., Jamestown, NY 14701
Ph: (716) 661-8220
Dunkirk DMV
3998 Vineyard Drive, Dunkirk, NY 14048
Ph: (716) 366-0210
Mayville DMV (Hall Clothier Building)
7 N. Erie St., Mayville, NY 14757
Ph: (716) 753-4229
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
*Real ID processing ends 1 hour before closing due to the multi-step, multi-employee nature of the transactions
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
