Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already has a star in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring with you numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a security driver's license or an state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, requires that states meet certain requirements for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses and identification card. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for travel, police and government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star in the upper right corner, then it is not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you wish to have one. Click here to find out whether your ID card is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have paid your fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, the Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of state and you are approved, you will receive a new standard DL/ID via mail. If deutschen führerschein kaufen are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be branded as the same on your document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll require a passport rather than a Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable form of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you in order to travel to other countries. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How do I obtain 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 these tools is a personalized document checklist that enables applicants to review the status of their application and identify what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid common mistakes that many 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 licences and state identification card. States that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and not be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options to obtain a real ID. This includes online or over the phone or in-person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right corner to identify a RealID. Cards that aren't certified do not bear the gold star.
If you aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but cannot be used to fly between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit an DMV office in person. They should also bring a valid photo ID, proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on the circumstances, but they should usually have the same evidence for each of the categories. For instance evidence of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, while evidence of residency in the US could be a utility bill, bank statement or pay stubs that have their address and name on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The documents you'll have to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you are doing. However, there are a few key things you should always be sure to bring. First, be sure to bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. You can present a valid passport, driver's licence or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring some form of proof that proves you are a resident of New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a picture that is in accordance with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear picture that shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, so you'll need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and their hours on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will save you from long wait periods.
The cost of an Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee, the photo and the card. The cost will be different if you are applying for the first time a driver's license, 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. If you're applying for a Real ID driver's license or an Enhanced ID, the DMV will need to verify your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. 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 license, then you must submit evidence issued by a judge or government documenting what caused the change.
How long will it normally take to receive an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as easy as getting the mailer telling you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. The clock is going by, but it's too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards when it comes to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals who want to alter 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 enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV in order to satisfy 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 help you understand the documents you must bring with you when you go to the office to complete your application.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need birth certificate or another type of certified public record with your name and date of your birth and two proofs of New York residency. This can be bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes aren't acceptable).
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you're a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could enable you to qualify for 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 document, check the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and what documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These websites could utilize your documents for fraud reasons, so do not send them images.