Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, then you'll be required to visit the DMV and bring various proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a security driver's license or an state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to adhere to certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the law is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable, which can be used for travel, police, and other government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't include a star in the upper-right corner, then it is not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you want one. Check here to determine whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process to get an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will need to provide proof of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, an ID with a valid photo and two documents of residency, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Finder.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees, your identity will be checked and a background check will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are planning to travel internationally, you will need to have the passport instead of a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable method of identification. This is also the case if you plan to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to have an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport before they can fly.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing a number of online tools to help people get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document checklist, allows applicants to check on the status of their application and determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes they 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 licences and state identification card. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of ways to apply for an authentic ID, such as online, by 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 unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold star in the card's top right corner to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have a gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. führerschein legal kaufen are valid 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 obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit the DMV office in person. They will also need to carry an ID photo that is valid, evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but usually will include one document for each category. For example the proof of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, while proof of state residency could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub with their name and address on it.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. There are some important items you must not forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be something like an official driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring some form of proof that proves your residence in New York. This could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address and 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 photo will differ based on the situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have the necessary documents you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You must apply in person, and you'll need to visit an DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can see a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
Make a reservation before you visit the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photograph and the card itself. The cost will vary when you apply for an entirely new driver's license, renewing an license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
You will also have to provide proof of your Social Security number. The DMV must verify your birth date and name with the Social Security Administration if you are applying for an enhanced ID or Real ID driver's licence. If the name on your identity proof legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a courtor government-issued proof of the events that led to the name change.
How long will it take to obtain a Real ID?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as simple as receiving a letter which informed you that it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or access certain federal structures or military bases, now you'll need a REALID or enhanced driver's licence. It's not too late for you to apply for a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations will make it more difficult for criminals to counterfeit or alter 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, including bases for military.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll need to provide specific proof of your identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will walk you through the information you need to bring to bring to the office to fill out your paperwork.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or print online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes can't be used).
You'll require 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 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 if you already have one. If you're looking for an enhanced or real photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and what documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites are not associated with the DMV. These companies may use your documents for fraudulent purposes, so you should not provide them with images.