Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already has a star at the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you require a real ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring along various proofs of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a security driver's license or 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, requires that states meet certain standards for issuing or renewing driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The aim of the act is to create more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star on the upper-right corner, it is not REALID compliant. You will need to upgrade if you want one. You can determine whether or not your credential is in compliance by clicking here.
The process to get the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You must submit proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents 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 you will receive your new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be branded as the same on your document.
It is important to remember that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. A passport is an extremely reliable and durable type of identification, and you will require it with you in order to travel abroad. This will also be the case when you wish to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to have a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can fly.

How can I obtain a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid people in the application process for an Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application and determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid common mistakes that many make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of ways to apply for Real IDs, including via the internet, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies with federal law. It will be required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you hold valid passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display the gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used on flights between these countries.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit the DMV office in person. They will also have to bring an ID photo that is valid as well as evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on the situation, but usually include one piece of evidence for each of the categories. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you will need to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. However there are a few key things you should always be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You are able to present a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you are a resident of New York. This can be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address - P.O. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address --- P.O.
Bring a picture that is in accordance with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally and you'll need to visit either an DMV or partner office such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can get the complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
When you arrive at the DMV make sure to make a reservation. This will save you from long waiting times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You will have to pay for the application fee, the photo and the 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.
You will also be required to provide proof of your Social Security number. If you are applying for a Real ID driver's license or an Enhanced ID, the DMV will need to verify your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your proofs of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, you will have to provide evidence issued by a judge or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long will it normally take to get an Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license required only a note in the mail telling you that it was time to renew. Now, if would like to fly or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it harder for criminals trying to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, like bases for military personnel.
You'll need to submit specific proofs of identification to DMV in order to satisfy 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 that will help you to know 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 require a birth certificate or other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or online documentation (documents that have P.O. Boxes can't be used).
You'll require a passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you're 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. führerschein kaufen 400 euro could enable you to receive discounts on airfare and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. If you want an enhanced or REAL photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used to commit fraud.