Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's licence already has a star at the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID, you'll have to go to the DMV and bring along numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is an enhanced security driver's license or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable and can be used for travel, police, and other government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You will need to upgrade if you want one. Check here to determine if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process to get a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with the required documents. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and a valid photo ID as well as two other proofs of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Find registrierten führerschein kaufen erfahrungen of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the fees, your identity will be verified and an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send you a new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID the ID will be marked as such on your document.
It is crucial to remember that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll require an official passport, not a Real ID. A passport is more secure and reliable form of identification, and you will need to bring it with you to travel internationally. You'll require an ID card or passport to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How do 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, a personalized document checklist, allows applicants to track the status of their application as well as determine which documents they should bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid common mistakes that many make when trying to get 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. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways to apply for 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 travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have a valid passport. You can recognize a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards do not have a gold star.
If you are unable to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these countries.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry a valid ID photo and evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but generally will include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.
What do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an ID that is genuine?
The exact documents you need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on your situation. However there are a few important things you must be sure to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of proof that confirm your identity. This could be something like an official driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves you are a resident of New York. It could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you provide a photo that is in line with the standards. The exact requirements for a picture will vary depending on the circumstances however, the majority of people have to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person and you'll need to go to either a DMV or partner office, such as DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and their hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation before you arrive at the DMV. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll need to pay the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will differ depending on whether you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you will be required to provide proof of your social security number. If you are applying for an 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 you see on your documents of identity legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must submit evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it typically take to get an Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license required only a note in the post telling you it was time to renew. However, now if you want to fly or enter some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals trying to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, such as 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 the Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online guide to documents that will help you to know what documents you require when you go to the office to fill out your application.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, or pay stub with your current address, or print online documents (documents with P.O. These could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes are not acceptable.
You'll require a passport, or an official immigration document based on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This could allow you to qualify for discounts on airline tickets and assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more in terms of renewing. Go to the DMV's calculator to determine the amount a REAL or Enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents to serve fraudulent purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.