Major Change Coming For Airport ID Procedure

Beginning next year, a New York State driver's license won't be acceptable for identification purposes prior to board a domestic airline.  That's why state and local officials are encouraging drivers to upgrade to an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) when it comes time to renew. The federal REAL ID Act beginning next year designates only certain forms of identification for domestic air travel and the Homeland Security website lists New York as one of the non-compliant states.  An Enhanced Driver's License meets the requirements.  It does require proof of date of birth, state residency and U.S. citizenship.  The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website has all the details of what you'll need. The cost of an enhanced license is $94.50, but it can used for land or sea travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries instead of a passport. There's more information available at any Erie County Auto Bureau or at www.erie.gov/clerk.