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 is nothing further you need to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, you'll need to visit the DMV and bring along several proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a true ID?
my website is an enhanced security driver's licence or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create a more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and to enter secure government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have gold stars in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you'll have to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to find out whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of obtaining a Real ID in New York is quite easy. The first step is to go to the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with required documents. You'll need proof of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as a valid photo ID, two different documents of residency, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the closest 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 in the mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID, it will be marked as such on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need more than a Real ID. A passport is a more reliable and robust type of identification, and you will require it with you to travel internationally. This is also the case if you want to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport to travel.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help people to navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of the tools, a customized document check list, allows people to monitor the status of their application and determine which documents they should bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes they make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their driver's licenses and state identification cards. If they do not conform with the law will be branded as such and not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers various ways to get 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, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an active passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
For those who 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 is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid to travel on land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but cannot be used to fly between these destinations.
Individuals will need to visit the DMV in person to obtain an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to bring an ID photo with a valid validity, proof of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The exact documents that are acceptable will depend on the circumstances, but they should usually have one document for each category. For example evidence of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, while evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, bank statement or pay stubs that have their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will differ based on the circumstances. However there are some key things you should always remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. You are able to bring a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves you are a resident of New York. This could be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo that is in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will differ based on the circumstances However, most people will need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally, so you'll need to visit either a DMV or partner office such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV make sure to make a reservation. This will save you from long wait periods.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You will need to pay for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. There are different fees to pay for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you will also have to show 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 identity proofs or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must submit evidence from a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to get an Real ID?
In the past renewal of your license was only a letter from the mail advising you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or go into certain federal buildings or military bases, now you need a REALID or enhanced driver's licence. The clock is going by, but it's too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules will make it more difficult for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID, or an Enhanced photo ID, to board domestic flights or to enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide that will help you to know what documents you need when you visit the office to complete your application.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or some other document that is certified by the public with your name and date of your birth and two proofs of New York residency. These can include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online documentation. Boxes are not accepted).
You'll need either a passport, or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could enable you to get discounts on airline tickets and help with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything else when it comes to renewing. Check the DMV's calculator to determine the amount an enhanced or REAL photo document will cost, and what documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used to commit fraud.