Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you are real ID-compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you require a real ID, you'll have to go to the DMV and bring several proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a security driver's license or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states adhere to certain standards for issuance or renewal of drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure, which can be used to travel on air, for police and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to find out if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of obtaining an Real ID in New York is relatively easy. The first step is to go to the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with required documents. You'll need proof of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an ID with a valid photo, two different proofs of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees, your identity will be verified. This is followed by a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of state you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll need more than a Real ID. A passport is a more reliable and robust method of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you to travel abroad. You'll require an ID card or passport to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools that can help applicants navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that allows applicants to assess the status of their application and decide what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid common mistakes that many make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. If kann man führerschein kaufen do not conform with the law will be labeled as such and will not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, including taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options to get a Real ID. This includes online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is any driver's license, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have an authentic passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the top right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel on maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but are not valid for air travel between those destinations.
To obtain an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They will also be required to bring an ID photo with a valid validity, proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but typically contain one document for each category. For example, proof of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, while proof of state residency could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you are doing. There are some important items you must not forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You should bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. This can be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address and address - P.O. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -P.O. P.O.
Bring a photo that is in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will differ based on your situation However, most people will need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, which means you'll need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices, such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and their hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation before you go to the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photo, and the card itself. The cost will differ depending on whether you are applying 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 need to provide proof of your Social Security number. The DMV must verify your date of birth 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 documents of identity, 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 does it usually take to receive a Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as simple as getting the letter which informed you that it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter certain federal buildings or bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. It's not too late to get a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals who want to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or an enhanced photo ID, to board domestic flights or to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll have to bring specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online guide to documents that will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you go to the office to fill out your application.
You can use a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. This could include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub showing 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're a veteran, you can add a special designation on your license or ID that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on flight tickets and assist you in finding a place to live.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do any more in regards to renewing. Use the calculator at the DMV to find out how much a REAL or Enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll need. 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 provide them with images.