Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's licence already has a star at the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't need to do anything else.
If you require a real ID, then you'll have to go to the DMV and bring with you several proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a Real ID?
Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable, which can be used for travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you will need to upgrade in order to obtain one. Click here to find out whether your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of getting a Real ID in New York is fairly straightforward. First, you have to go to an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need to submit proof of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, a valid photo ID and two evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid your fees Your identity will be verified and an investigation of your background 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 via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable form of identification. This will also be the case when you wish to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers have a REAL ID or a valid passport to fly.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help people to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that enables applicants to check the status of their application and identify what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes they make when trying get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. If they do not conform with the law will be labeled as such and won't be allowed to use them for federal purposes, such as taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers 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 travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an active passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't able to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that complies 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 air travel between these countries.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit a DMV office in person. They must bring an acceptable photo ID, proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact document that is acceptable will vary based on their circumstances, but they should usually have the same evidence for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility invoice or bank statement, as well as a pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to get a real ID?
The specific documents you will need to bring with you to the DMV will vary depending on your particular situation. However there are some important things you must keep in mind to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. This could be something like a valid driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a document that proves you live in New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a 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.
Make sure you bring a photo that meets the specifications. The requirements for a photo will differ based on the specific situation. However, most people are required to take a clear picture that clearly shows their 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, so you'll need to visit either the DMV or partner office like DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours on the DMV website.
When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will save you from long wait periods.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll have to pay the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will be different depending on whether you are applying for a 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'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 see on your documents of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must provide evidence issued by a judge or government documenting what caused the change.
How long will führerschein ohne prüfung legal take to obtain an Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as receiving a mailer that told you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, then you'll need an enhanced driver's licence. It's not too late to apply for an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards with regard to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government says that the new rules 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 certain federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to submit specific proofs of identification to DMV to meet the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide which will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you visit the office to complete your application.
You can use a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with your current address, or print online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online documentation. Boxes are not acceptable).
You'll require a passport or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're a veteran, you can add a special designation on your ID or license that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on travel tickets as well as help in finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you want a REAL or an Enhanced photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and what documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used for fraud purposes.