Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already has an asterisk in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you are in need of a REAL ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring with you several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets the highest security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to meet certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an additional 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 a gold star in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you will need to upgrade to get one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is in compliance by clicking here.
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'll need evidence of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an acceptable photo ID and two proofs of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). führerschein kaufen deutschland can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have paid your fees, the Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct an identity check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, you will receive your new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID, it will be branded as such on your document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll need more than a Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable method of identification, and you will have to carry it with you to travel to other countries. You'll require a passport or REAL ID to take commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help applicants get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification card. States that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, such as the boarding of domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of ways to apply for a Real ID, including via the internet, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an authentic passport. Look for a gold star on the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have a gold star.
If you are not able to meet the requirements for the Real ID, you can still get an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit a DMV office in person. They must present an acceptable photo ID, proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but usually contain one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. There are some important things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. You are able to bring a valid passport, driver's licence, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residence in New York. It could be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. This can be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address -P.O. P.O.
Bring a photo that is in line with the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on the situation, but most people need to take a face-to-face photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply to the DMV to get your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person and you'll need to go to either the DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you will find the complete list of offices and their operating hours.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you arrive at the DMV. This will save you from long wait periods.
The cost of the Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will vary depending on whether you are applying for an entirely 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 necessary documents, you'll be required 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 require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. 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 government documenting what caused the change.
How long does it take to obtain an Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as getting the letter in the mail telling you it was time to renew. But now, if you are planning to fly or visit some federal structures and military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. It's not too late to obtain a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government says the new rules will make it more difficult for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter some federal facilities, like bases for military.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll need to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide which will help you understand what documents you require when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or some other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of your birth, as well as two proofs of New York residency. These could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents that have P.O. Boxes are not 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, you can add a special designation on your ID or license that shows you were a member of the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on flight tickets and assist you in finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. If you're looking for a REAL or an Enhanced photo document, check the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll need. There are websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These companies could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, so you should not send them images.