Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you are REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing else you have to do.
If you are in need of an actual ID, you will have to visit an DMV office and present several proofs of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a genuine ID?
Real ID is a security driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States, requires that states meet certain standards for issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure, which can be used to travel on air, for law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary 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'll have to upgrade to obtain one. You can check whether or not your credential is compliant by clicking here.
The process of getting an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you must visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an ID with a valid photo as well as two other documents of residency, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the fees your identity will be verified. This is followed by a background check will be 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 are approved for an REAL ID and it is approved, it will be marked as an official document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. Passports are a more reliable and robust form of identification, and you will have to carry it with you in order to travel abroad. This will also be the case if you plan to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport in order to travel.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist those applying for the Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows applicants to assess the status of their application and determine the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. Those who do not comply will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options to obtain a real ID. These include online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is a driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is in compliance with federal law. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you hold an active passport. Look for a gold star on the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have a gold star.
If you aren't capable of meeting the requirements for an Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel on maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they are not valid for air travel between those destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to obtain a Real ID, or enhanced document. They must bring an ID with a valid photo as well as proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact documents that are acceptable will depend on their circumstances, but they should usually have one document for each of the categories. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill or bank statement, as well as a pay stubs that include their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The specific documents you will have to bring to the DMV will differ based on the circumstances. There are a few important things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be a valid driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. This could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address (please note that P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you provide a photo that is in line with the standards. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the circumstances. However, deutschen führerschein kaufen erfahrungen are required to take a clear picture that shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, so you'll need to go to the DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV Be sure to reserve a seat. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photograph and the card itself. The cost will differ if you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing or renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you will be required 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 you see on your proofs of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's license, you will have to provide evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it take to obtain a Real ID?
In the past renewing your license was only a letter from the post telling you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or access certain federal buildings or military bases, then you need an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to obtain an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government says that the new rules will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.

You'll have to provide specific proof of identification to DMV to meet the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will walk you through the documents you must bring to bring to the office to complete your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need a birth certificate or other form of certified public record with the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. This could include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online documents. Boxes cannot be used).
You'll need a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're a veteran, you can add a special designation on your license or ID that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on your airline tickets and help with finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the types of documents you'll need. There are websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.