Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner, then you're real ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you need a REAL ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring with you several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with higher security 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 goal of the law is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable that can be used for air travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant and you'll need to upgrade to obtain one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
The process for obtaining an 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 complete your application and the required documents. You will be required to provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture and two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid the fees, the secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct an investigation into your background. If you are approved, the Secretary of State will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID, it will be marked as an official document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need more than a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, since it is a more trustworthy form of identification. This is also the case if you want to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport in order to fly.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to check the status of their application and determine the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. If they do not conform with the law will be labeled as such and not be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options for individuals to obtain a Real ID. This includes online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have an active passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right corner of your card. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies 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 obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit the DMV office in person. They will also need to carry a valid ID photo and evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but generally contain one document for each category. For example evidence of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, and proof of state residency could be a utility bill, bank statement or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
führerschein kaufen ohne prüfung 'll need to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you're doing. There are some important things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. You are able to present a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring proof of residency that proves you are a resident of New York. It could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Finally, be sure to take a picture that meets the specifications. The exact requirements for a picture will vary based on the circumstances however, the majority of people have to take a photo with a front view that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own which means you'll have to visit either a DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to make a reservation. This will prevent you from long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay for the application, a photograph and the card itself. You'll have to pay different fees if you're applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing license, or changing an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also need to show 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, lawful status, and Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a courtor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long does it take to obtain an Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license required only a letter from the mail telling you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or enter certain federal structures or military bases, then you require a REALID or enhanced driver's licence. The clock is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims 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 board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, including bases for military.
You'll need to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV in order to satisfy the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide that will assist you in understanding the documents you'll need when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, or pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. These can include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes are not acceptable.
You'll require a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you are an active veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your ID or license which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This could enable you to receive discounts on flights and assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require any more in regards to renewing. Go to the DMV's calculator to find out how much an enhanced or REAL photo ID will cost, and the documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used to commit fraud.