Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features an asterisk in the upper-right side, you already have a REAL ID that is compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you are in need of an actual ID, you will have to visit an DMV office and bring proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with the highest security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an additional secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not include a star in the upper right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can determine whether or not your credential is compliant by clicking here.
The process of getting the 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 evidence of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, a valid photo ID as well as two other evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Finder.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees your identity will be verified. This is followed by an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID the ID will be noted as the same on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind 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 method of identification, and you'll have to carry it with you in order to travel abroad. This is also the case if you plan to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers have an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I obtain a Real ID?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist applicants in completing their application for a Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and identify the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that will help applicants avoid common mistakes that many make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, including taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options for individuals to obtain a Real ID. These include online, over the 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 an authentic passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can still 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 both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used for air travel between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They should also bring an ID with a valid photo as well as proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but typically will include one document for each category. For instance evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, while evidence of residency in the state could be an utility bill, a bank statement or pay stubs with their name and address on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to obtain a real ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. There are some important things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. You should bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring proof of residency that proves your residence in New York. This could be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address and address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to provide a photo that is in line with the specifications. The exact requirements for a photo will differ based on the situation however, the majority of people have to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you are able to go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person, so you'll need to visit either the DMV or partner office, such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and their hours on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV Be sure to make a reservation. This will save you from long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll have to pay the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will be different if you are applying for a 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. If you are applying for a Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will need to confirm your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your proofs of identity or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must submit evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it typically take to get an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as easy as receiving a mailer that told you it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or enter certain federal structures or military bases, now you require a REALID or enhanced driver's licence. kann man den führerschein kaufen is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards with regard to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it harder for criminals who want 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 certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will walk you through the documents you must bring to bring to the office to fill in your paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or some other document that is certified by the public that includes the name and date of birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These can include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes are not acceptable).
You'll need either 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 license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to qualify for 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. If you want an enhanced or REAL photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the types of documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used for fraudulent purposes.