Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's licence already has a star 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'll be required to visit the DMV and bring along several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.
What is a true ID?
Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or an state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states meet certain requirements for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure, which can be used for travel, police, and other 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's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to check whether your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining a Real ID in New York is relatively easy. First, you have to go to an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo and two proofs of residency and a 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 completed your paperwork and paid your fees Your identity will be checked and a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of state and you are approved, you will receive a new DL/ID standard in the mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID the ID will be branded as an official document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll require a passport instead of a Real ID. A passport is a more reliable and robust form of identification, and you will have to carry it with you to travel internationally. You will need an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.

How do I get a Real ID?
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 check list, allows applicants to monitor 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 will help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when trying to get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their driver's licenses as well as state identification cards. deutschland für den kauf eines führerscheins who do not comply will be marked and will not be allowed 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 range of options for individuals to obtain a real ID. These include online or 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. It will be required for air travel within the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you hold valid passport. You can recognize a Real ID by looking for a gold star in the upper right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards don't have the gold star.
For those who aren't capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used for air travel between these destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to get an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also have to carry a valid ID photo, proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will vary based on their circumstances, but they should usually have one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state can be a utility statement, bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I need bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The specific documents you will have to bring to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. There are some important things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. This can be something like a valid driver's licence or passport, or a birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. This could be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address (please note that P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to provide a photo that is in line with the specifications. The requirements for a photograph will differ based on the specific situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, so you'll need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will find all the offices and hours of operation.
When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to make a reservation. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. The cost will differ when you apply for the first time a driver's license, renewing or renewing your license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you'll 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 require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you have on your proof of identity or lawful status Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will need to bring in courtor government-issued proof of the events that led to the name change.
How long does it usually take to get a Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license required only a letter in the mail advising you that it was time to renew. But now, if you are planning to fly or visit some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is going by, but it's too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government says that the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies, like 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 personnel.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will walk you through 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, pay stub with your current address, or print online documents (documents with P.O. This could include an utility bill, a bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes are not acceptable.
You'll need either passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Use the calculator at the DMV to find out how much an enhanced or REAL photo document will cost, and what documents you need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used to commit fraud.