Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features a star in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
For those who need an actual ID You will need to visit an DMV office and bring several proofs of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a heightened security driver's licence or state identification card that 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 renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create an additional secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and for entry into secure 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's not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade in order to obtain one. Click here to check if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you must visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need proof of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an ID with a valid photo and two evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Finder.
After you have submitted all the required documents and paid the fees The Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you 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 need an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable form of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you to travel to other countries. This is also the case if you want to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to possess real ID or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants get through the process of applying for an Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that allows people to check 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 can help people avoid the common mistakes people 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. States that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, such as taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options to get a Real ID. This includes online, 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 is compliant with federal law. In May 2025, it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an authentic passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display a gold star.
If you're not in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on air travel between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also have to carry an ID photo that is valid, proof of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but typically include one document for each category. Proof 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, or pay stub that includes their name and address.

What do I have to bring to DMV in order to obtain an actual ID?
The specific documents you'll need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. However there are some key things you should always remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. You should present a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring proof of residency that proves your residence in New York. This could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address (please note that P.O. This could be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -P.O. P.O.
Bring a photo in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will vary depending on your situation however, the majority of people have to take a photo with a front view that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You must apply personally, so you'll need to visit either an DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can get all the offices and their operating hours.
If you are going to the DMV make sure to reserve a seat. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. There are different fees to pay if you're applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting the New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you'll also have to show proof of your social security number. The DMV must verify your date of birth and name with the Social Security Administration if you are applying for an enhanced ID or Real ID driver's licence. If the name that appears on your documents of identity legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must submit evidence issued by a judge or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long will it normally take to receive an Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license required only a letter in the mail advising you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government says the new rules will make it more difficult for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced Photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter some federal facilities, like bases for military personnel.
You'll need to submit specific proof of identity to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will guide you through the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to fill out 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 with your name and date of birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address, or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes can't be used).
You'll need either passport or an official immigration document based on your age. If führerschein kaufen Fuehrerscheinn 're a Veteran, you can put a special designation on your ID or license that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator for the cost and the documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not associated with the DMV. These companies may use your documents to serve fraudulent purposes, so you should not provide them with images.