Syracuse, New York – The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA), operator of Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), is urging travelers to ensure they have REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID – such as a passport – for their next domestic flight. The 2005 REAL ID Act and associated regulations, after multiple postponements, will go into effect at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints at airports across the country on May 7, 2025. Travelers with non-compliant forms of ID will face additional screening measures and possible travel delays.
A REAL ID is a federally compliant driver’s license, learner permit, or non-driver ID, issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), that will be required to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings on May 7, 2025. In New York State, if using one of the aforementioned state-issued forms of identification, your license or ID must have a star (REAL ID) or flag (Enhanced Driver’s License) on it to be used as identification at the TSA security checkpoint.
“As we strive to achieve a best-in-class airport customer experience here in Syracuse, we want to ensure travelers are educated on what is needed for a smooth start to their travel day at the TSA checkpoint,” said SRAA Executive Director Jason Terreri. “If you have flights booked on or after May 7, 2025; please take a moment to review the form of identification you intend to use at the TSA checkpoint now and confirm it is on TSA’s list of acceptable IDs.”
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses, permits, and ID cards. It also prohibits federal agencies, such as TSA, from accepting ID cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.
Helpful links:
- Learn more about obtaining an Enhanced or REAL ID from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on their Enhanced or REAL ID webpage.
- View a list of Acceptable IDs for the TSA checkpoint on their Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint webpage.
- Learn more about the 29 destinations served by nonstop flights from SYR on the airport’s Destinations Page.
About the SRAA
The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority (SRAA) operates Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) serving Upstate New York, providing a safe, convenient, seamless passenger experience while enhancing economic opportunity, development, and growth in the region. Established on August 17, 2011, the SRAA officially took over operations of the airport from the City of Syracuse on March 1, 2014. The SRAA’s vision is for SYR to be recognized as a best-in-class airport elevating the customer experience and exceeding stakeholder expectations, while using innovative technology and optimizing the economic prosperity of the region we serve.
To receive a copy of this document translated into a language other than English, please use the Recite Me application on the syrairport.org website, or contact the Title VI Coordinator at CivilRights@syrairport.org, or 315-455-3626.