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 more you have to do.
If you require a REAL ID, you will have to visit an DMV office and bring several documents of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is an enhanced security driver's license or an state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It requires states to meet certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and also to gain access to secure 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 need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can check whether or not your ID card is in compliance by clicking here.
The process of obtaining a Real ID in New York is fairly straightforward. The first step is to visit an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You'll need to submit proof of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an acceptable photo ID, two different documents of residency, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have 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 mail your new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
It is crucial to remember that if you intend on traveling internationally, you'll need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, since it is a more secure method of identification. You will need an ID card or passport to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help people get through the process of applying for an 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 need to bring to their local DMV. An other tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying to get a 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. Anyone who does not meet the standards will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a range of options for individuals to obtain a Real ID. They can be obtained online, 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 for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you have valid passport. Look for a gold star in the card's top right corner to identify the RealID. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
If you aren't capable of meeting the requirements for an Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used for air travel between these countries.
Individuals must visit the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also be required to bring a valid ID photo, evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on the situation, but typically they will have the same evidence for each of the categories. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state can be a utility statement, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain a real ID?
The exact documents you need to bring with you to the DMV will differ based on the circumstances. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, be sure to bring two forms of documentation that prove your identity. This could be a valid driver's licence or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you reside in New York. This could be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo that is in line with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ based on the circumstances. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear picture that clearly shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply in person, so you'll need to go to a DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation before you go to the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll have to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will be different if 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.
You will also need to show 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 on your proof of identity legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long does fuhrerschein kaufen take to obtain a Real ID?
In the past renewal of your license was only a note in the mail advising you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal structures and bases, you'll require a REAL ID or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. It's not too late to apply for a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government says that the new regulations will make it more difficult for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identification to DMV in order 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 guideline that will walk you through what you need to have with you when you go to the office to fill in your paperwork.
You can use a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. These can include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address, or printed online documents (documents that have P.O. Boxes are not acceptable.
You'll require passport or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to get discounts on airfare and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. Check the DMV's calculator to determine the amount an enhanced or REAL photo document will cost, and the documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from home, but these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites because they could be used for fraud purposes.