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're REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, you will have to visit an DMV office and present several documents of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a security driver's license or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to meet certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable that can be used for travel, police, and other government facilities.
If you have a standard 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 check whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with the required documents. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as a valid photo ID as well as two other documents of residency, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the required documents and paid your fees, the Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of state you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
It is important to remember that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll require an official passport, not a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally as it is a more trustworthy method of identification. This is also the case if you plan to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess a REAL ID or a valid passport to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid applicants in completing their application for the Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows applicants to check the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, including the boarding of domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers a range of options for individuals to get a Real ID. This includes online, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a driver's license, 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 an authentic passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have the gold star.
If you aren't capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these destinations.
The applicants will have to visit the DMV in person to get an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also have to carry an ID photo that is valid and evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on the circumstances, but they should usually have one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice or bank statement, as well as a pay stubs with their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to get a real ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will differ based on your particular situation. There are some important things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. echten führerschein kaufen erfahrungen could be an official driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring proof of residency that proves your residency in New York. This could be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address (please note that P.O. This could be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O.
Bring a photo that is in accordance with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ based on the specific situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photo which shows their face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own and you'll need to go to either a DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will find the complete list of offices and their operating hours.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to reserve a seat. This will prevent you from long waiting periods.
The cost of the Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay for the application, a photo and the card itself. The cost will vary if you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing your license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
You will also need to show proof of your Social Security number. If you are applying for an Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will need to confirm your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name on your identity proof, lawful status, and Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a court- or government-issued proof documenting the circumstances that led to the name 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 that told you it was time to renew. But now, if you want to fly or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or a driver's license with an enhanced version. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identification to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide which will assist you in understanding the documents you'll need when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need a birth certificate or other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of your birth and two evidences of New York residency. These can include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes can't be used).
You'll require a passport, or an official immigration document depending 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 flight tickets and assist you in finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Check the DMV's calculator to determine how much a REAL or enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not associated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents for fraudulent reasons, so do not provide them with images.