Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already has an asterisk in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you require a real ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring along several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or an state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states meet certain standards for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and to enter secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll need to upgrade if you want one. Click here to check whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining the Real ID in New York is relatively simple. The first step is to go to a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and the required documents. You will be required to provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Finder.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees Your identity will be checked and an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. Passports are a more reliable and robust method of identification, and you'll have to carry it with you in order to travel to other countries. registrierten führerschein kaufen 'll need a passport or REAL ID to take commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real ID?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid applicants in completing their application for a Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows people to check on the status of their application and determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and not be permitted to use them for federal purposes, including the boarding of domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to get a Real ID. These include online or over the phone or in-person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold star on the card's upper right corner to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't capable of meeting the requirements for an Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel on land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to get a Real ID, or enhanced document. They should also bring an ID with a valid photo and proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but generally include one document for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and proof of state residency could be an utility bill, a bank statement or pay stubs that have their address and name on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get a real ID?
The documents you'll have to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you're doing. However there are a few important things you must be sure to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of proof that confirm your identity. This could be an official driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you reside 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).
Make sure you bring a photo that meets the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on the situation However, most people will need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply to the DMV for your Real ID. You must apply personally which means you'll have to go to either a DMV or partner office, like DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
Make a reservation prior to when you arrive at the DMV. This will save you from long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You will have to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will be different when you apply for the first time a driver's license, renewing or renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
You will also have to show proof of your Social Security number. The DMV must verify your birth date and name with the Social Security Administration if you are applying for an enhanced ID or Real ID driver's licence. If the name that appears on your proofs of identity or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must submit proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long will it take to get an Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as easy as getting the letter in the mail which informed you that it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or go into certain federal buildings or military bases, now you'll need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to apply for an ID that is REAL.
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 more difficult for criminals trying to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll need to bring specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will help you understand the documents you must bring with you when you go to the office to fill in the paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require a birth certificate or other form of certified public record with the name and date of birth and two proofs of New York residency. This could include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online documents. Boxes are not acceptable.
Based on your age, you'll also require either a passport or an official immigration document. If you are an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to get discounts on airline tickets as well as assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more when it comes to renewing. If you're looking for an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These companies could utilize your documents for fraud reasons, so do not provide them with images.