Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already features a star at the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you require a real ID then you will be required to visit the DMV and bring with you various proofs of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a heightened security driver's licence or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states adhere to certain standards in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses and identification card. The purpose of the law is to create a more secure and reliable method 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 doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant, and you'll need to upgrade to get one. You can check whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
The process of getting a Real ID in New York is relatively simple. The first step is to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with required documents. You will need to provide proof of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, an acceptable photo ID and two evidence of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all of the required documents and 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 you will receive your new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you plan on traveling internationally, you will require the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, since it is a more trustworthy source of identification. You'll require an ID card or passport to take commercial flights in the United States.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants navigate the process of applying for a 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 an Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and will not be able to use them for federal purposes, including boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options for people to obtain a Real ID. They can be obtained online, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a driver's licence, permit or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an active passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display a gold star.

If you are not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used on air travel between these destinations.
Individuals must visit the DMV in person to obtain a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also have to bring an ID photo that is valid as well as proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but generally include one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. However there are some essential things you must keep in mind to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. This could be a valid driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you reside in New York. This can be something like an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to bring a photo that meets the specifications. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the situation. However, führerschein ohne prüfung legal are required to take a clear picture which shows their face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally and you'll need to go to either the DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website you will find a complete list of offices and their operating hours.
When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will help you avoid long wait periods.
The cost of an 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 when you apply for an entirely new driver's license, renewing or renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
In click through the up coming website page to the necessary documents, you will 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 the name you have on your proof of identity legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as easy as getting the mailer which informed you that it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or access certain federal buildings or military bases, now you require a REALID or enhanced driver's license. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals trying to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an enhanced Photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter some federal facilities, including bases for military.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will help you understand what you need to have to bring to the office to fill out the paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with your current address, or print online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub showing 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 a veteran, you can add a special designation on your license or ID that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets and help with finding a place to live.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you aren't required to do anything else when it comes to renewing. Check the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not associated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used to commit fraud.