Proof of identity compliant with REAL ID security standards will be required for domestic flights and some federal facilities starting May 7, 2025. To meet the expected high demand for REAL ID processing, the Ulster County Clerk's Office encourages residents to make an appointment as soon as possible.

The REAL ID Act is federal legislation that outlines security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. After May 7, a standard New York State driver's license will no longer be sufficient to board a domestic flight, enter certain federal buildings or gain access to a military base.

Residents can make an appointment online at https://bit.ly/UCDMVappt. If the phone line is busy (due to high call volumes), residents can email dmv@co.ulster.ny.us instead. To avoid travel disruptions after the May 7 deadline, the Ulster County Clerk's Office encourages residents not to wait to make an appointment.

When applying for a REAL ID, residents must bring the correct documentation to their DMV appointment. The New York State DMV has an online document guide at https://dmv.ny.gov/get-enhanced-or-real-id.

For DMV information or to contact the Ulster County Clerk's Office, visit https://clerk.ulstercountyny.gov or call (845) 340-3288.