Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID compliant and there's nothing else you have to do.
If you need a REAL ID, you'll be required to visit the DMV and bring with you numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star in the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll need to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can determine whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process of getting the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you have to go to the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency, a valid ID photo and two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have provided all the required documents and paid the fees, the secretary of state will confirm your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State you will receive your new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID the ID will be marked as such on your document.
It is important to remember that if you are planning on traveling internationally, you will need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. This will also be the case if you plan to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can travel.
How do I get an Real ID?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist people in the application process to obtain the Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application and determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and identification cards. If they do not conform with the law will be marked as such and will not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, such as taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers various options for people to obtain Real IDs, including 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 have an authentic passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right corner to identify a RealID. Cards that aren't certified do not bear the gold star.
For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain 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 by land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they are not valid to travel by air between those destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to carry a valid ID photo, proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The exact documents that are acceptable will vary based on their situation, but usually include one piece of evidence for each category. For example evidence of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get a real ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will vary depending on the circumstances. There are a few important things you shouldn't forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two forms of documentation that prove your identity. You should bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring some form of proof that proves your residence in New York. It could be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a picture that is in line with the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on the situation However, most people will need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, which means you will need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices like 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 waiting times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photograph and the card itself. You'll have to pay different fees if you're applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing licence, or changing a New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you'll 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 legalen führerschein kaufen on your proof of identity or lawful status Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long does it usually take to receive a Real ID card?
Prior to recently renewing your license was only a letter in the post telling you that it was time to renew. But now, if you are planning to fly or visit some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is going by, but it's enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government says the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll need to bring specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide which will help you understand the documents you'll need when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or print online documentation (documents with P.O. This can be a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online proof of identity. Boxes cannot be used).
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either a passport or an official immigration document. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you're looking for an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the 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. These companies may use your documents to serve fraudulent reasons, so do not provide them with images.