Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you are REAL ID compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you are in need of an ID with a real name you must visit the DMV office and bring documents 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 license or state identification card that meets the highest security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, requires that states meet certain standards in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses as well as 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 your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can check whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process to get the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, pop over to this site need to visit an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency and the fee of $28 (see Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the 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 and you are approved, you will receive a new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be noted on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more secure form of identification. You will need a passport or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing a number of online tools to help people get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that allows people to assess the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for 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 marked and will not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers various ways to get an authentic ID, such as online, by phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's licence, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an authentic 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. visit here that aren't conforming do not have the gold star.
If you aren't able to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel on either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they are not valid for air travel between those destinations.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit an DMV office in person. They will also need to present an ID with a valid photo as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but generally will include one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The exact documents you need to bring with you to the DMV will differ based on your situation. However, there are a few key things you should always remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You can bring a valid passport, driver's licence, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residence in New York. This could be something like an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. This could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address -P.O. P.O.
Make sure you provide a photo that is in line with the specifications. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on the circumstances, but most people need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, so you'll need to go to a DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will get a complete list of offices and hours of operation.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to reserve a seat. This will help you avoid long wait periods.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will have to pay the application fee as well as the photo card. There are different fees to pay if you're applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence or converting the New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also have to provide proof of your Social Security number. If you're applying for an 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 have on your identity proof, lawful status, and Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long will it take to get a Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a mailer that told you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or access certain federal structures or military bases, now you need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. The clock is going by, but it's 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 rules will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter 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, like bases for military personnel.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll have to bring specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will walk you through the documents you must bring with you when you go to the office to complete your paperwork.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, pay stub with your current address, or print 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 can't be used).
You'll need either a passport or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to qualify for discounts on flights and assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more in terms of renewing. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and what documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These companies may use your documents to serve fraudulent purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.