Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're real ID-compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you require an ID with a real name you must visit the DMV office and bring evidence of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and for entry into secure 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's not REAL ID compliant and you'll need to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to check whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and required documents. You'll need to submit proof of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and a valid photo ID, two different proofs of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted your documents and paid your fees, your identity will be verified. This is followed by a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be branded as an official document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll require a passport rather than a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, since it is a more reliable method of identification. This is also the case if you plan to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to have a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can fly.
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 the tools, a customized document check list, allows applicants to track the status of their application as well as determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an 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 will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers various options to get 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 is in compliance with federal law. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess an authentic passport. Look for a gold star on the card's upper right to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have the gold star.
If you are not able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They will also need to bring an ID with a valid photo and proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ depending on the situation but typically will include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an actual ID?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will differ depending on your situation. However there are some key things you should always remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be an official driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves you are a resident of New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -- P.O. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address -- P.O.
Bring a photo that is in conformity with the guidelines. The exact requirements for a picture will differ based on the situation However, most people will need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have the required documents you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You have to apply in person, and you'll need to visit an DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can see a complete list of offices and their operating hours.
Make a reservation prior to when you go to the DMV. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You will have to pay the application fee along with the photo and card. You'll have to pay different fees when applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting a New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you'll also need 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 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 have to present a courtor government-issued proof of the events that caused the name change.
How long will it take to obtain an Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as getting the mailer which informed you that it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals who want to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to meet the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide which will assist you in understanding the documents you'll need when you visit the office to fill out your application.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes can't be used).
You'll need a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. führerschein kaufen legal . This can allow you to get discounts on airfare and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Check the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. These companies could use your documents for fraudulent purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.