Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner then you are REAL ID-compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID then you will have to go to the DMV and bring along various proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a true 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 obliges states to comply with certain requirements 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 that can be used for air travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade in order to obtain one. You can check whether or not your ID card is valid by clicking here.
The process for obtaining a Real ID in New York is fairly straightforward. The first step is to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and the required documents. You must submit evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the required documents and paid the fees The secretary of state will confirm your identity and conduct an identity check. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will send you a new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. A passport is a more reliable and robust type of identification, and you'll require it with you in order to travel internationally. You'll need an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help people navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that allows applicants to review the status of their application and determine what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification card. If they do not, they will be tagged and not be able to use their IDs for federal purposes. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options to get a Real ID. These include online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally recognized DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. It is required to travel on air within the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right corner to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have a gold star.
For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that conforms 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 can't be used on flights between these destinations.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit the DMV office in person. They will also have to bring an ID photo with a valid validity as well as proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The documents required will vary depending on the situation but typically include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency can be a utility statement or bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain a real ID?
The specific documents you'll need to bring with you to the DMV will differ based on your situation. However, there are a few key things you should always be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. You should bring a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you reside in New York. This could be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show 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 requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the specific situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own and you'll need to visit either a DMV or partner office, like DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV make sure to make a reservation. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You will need to pay for the application, a photo, and the card itself. There are different fees to pay if you're applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing license, or changing a New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also have 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 require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name that appears on your identity proofs or 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 will have to provide proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
Prior to recently renewing your license was only a letter in the post telling you it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, now you need an enhanced driver's licence. It's not too late for you to get a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it harder for criminals trying to counterfeit or alter these documents. fuehrerscheinn.com , like the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to meet the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide that will help you to know what documents you require when you go to the office to fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need birth certificate or another type of certified public record with the name and date of your birth and two documents proving your New York residency. These can include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or printed online documentation. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll require a passport or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're a veteran, you can put a special designation on your ID or license that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on your flight tickets and assist you in finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. Go to the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or Enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.