Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already has an asterisk in the upper-right side, you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID, then you'll have to go to the DMV and bring along several proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with the highest security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states meet certain requirements in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for air travel, 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 get one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
The process of getting 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 proof of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an acceptable photo ID and two evidence of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
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 and the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more reliable source of identification. This will also be the case if you plan to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying for the Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to check the status of their application and determine what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying to get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. echten führerschein kaufen erfahrungen who do not comply will be marked and will not be able to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways for people to obtain an authentic ID, such as via the internet, 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 possess a valid passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the top right corner of your card. Cards that aren't conforming do not have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet the requirements for the 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 are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used for air travel between these destinations.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to carry an ID photo with a valid validity and evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ depending on the situation but typically contain one document for each category. For example, proof of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs with their address and name on it.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The specific documents you'll need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. First, be sure to bring two pieces of proof that prove your identity. You are able to carry a valid passport or driver's licence or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring some form of proof that proves your residence in New York. This can be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a picture that is in conformity with the guidelines. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear picture that shows their face.
Once you have the required documents, you can apply to the DMV for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own, so you'll need to go to either an 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 arrive at the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will prevent you from long waiting periods.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photo, and the card itself. The cost will be different if you are applying for an entirely new driver's license, renewing an license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
You will also be required 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 require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your proofs of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must submit evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it usually take to get a Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your license required only a letter from the mail telling you that it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL 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 submit specific proof of identity to DMV to meet federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online guide to documents that will help you understand the documents you'll need when you go to the office to fill out your paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or print online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or printed online proof of identity. Boxes are not acceptable).
You'll need passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you're a veteran, it is possible to add a designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to qualify for discounts on flights and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you're looking for an enhanced or REAL photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator for the cost and the types of documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used for fraud purposes.