Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
For those who need an actual ID You will need to visit a DMV office and bring several proofs of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create an additional secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and to enter secure government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have a gold star in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to get one. Check here to determine whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process to get a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and required documents. You will need to provide evidence of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, an acceptable photo ID and two proofs of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the fees Your identity will be verified and an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, you will receive your new DL/ID standard in the mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be indicated on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. A passport is more secure and reliable type of identification, and you'll require it with you to travel to other countries. You will need a passport or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows people to check on the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to get a Real ID. This includes online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is in compliance with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's top right corner to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have a gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can still get an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel by land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They will also have to bring a valid ID photo, evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but typically will include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice or bank statement, as well as a pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to obtain a real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you are doing. However there are a few essential things you must keep in mind to bring. First, be sure to bring two pieces of proof that prove your identity. This can be something like a valid driver's licence or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove you live in New York. This could be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address (please note that P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a picture that is in line with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear picture which shows their face.
Once you have the required documents you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You must apply personally, so you'll need to visit either a DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can find a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
Make a reservation before you arrive at the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photo and the card itself. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In kann man einen führerschein kaufen Fuehrerscheinn to the required documents, you'll also need to provide proof of your social security number. If you're applying for a Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will need to verify your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your identity proofs, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must submit evidence issued by a judge or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long will it take to obtain a Real ID?
In the past renewal of your license was only a note in the mail advising you it was time to renew. However, now if you want to fly or enter some federal structures and military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. The clock is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals who want to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter some federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll have to provide specific proof of identification to DMV in order to satisfy federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will help you understand what you need to have with you when you go to the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or another form of certified public record with the name and date of your birth and two evidences of New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online proof of identity. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll need a passport or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to qualify for discounts on airline tickets and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you're interested in an enhanced or REAL photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to see how much it will cost and the documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These companies could use your documents for fraudulent purposes, therefore you should not send them images.