Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring along several proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a genuine ID?
A Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to meet certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star on the upper right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll have 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 an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with required documents. You'll need evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, an acceptable photo ID, two different proofs of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
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 in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your document.
It is important to remember that if you are planning on traveling internationally, you will need to have the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable method of identification, and you will have to carry it with you in order to travel to other countries. deutschen führerschein kaufen is also the case if you want to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess real ID 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 those applying for an Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that allows applicants to assess 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 requires states to meet federal security standards for their driver's licenses as well as 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 the boarding of domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various options for people to obtain an authentic ID, such as via the internet, 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 is compliant with federal law. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess an active passport. Look for a gold star in the card's top right corner to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have a gold star.
If you are not able to meet the requirements for the Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that's in line with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid to travel on land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but cannot be used for air travel between those destinations.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to carry a valid ID photo, evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstances but usually will include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state can be a utility statement or bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.
What do I need to bring to DMV in order to get a real ID?
The documents you will have to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you're doing. There are a few important items you must not forget to bring. First, be sure to bring two pieces of documentation that can prove your identity. You are able to carry a valid passport or driver's licence, or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring some form of proof that proves your residency in New York. This can be something like an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must have your current address -- P.O. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O.
Bring a picture that is in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will vary depending on your situation However, most people will need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply in person, which means you'll need to go to an DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and their hours on the DMV website.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you visit the DMV. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph and the card itself. There are different fees to pay when 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 need to show proof of your Social Security number. If you're applying for a 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 that appears on your proofs of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you will have to provide evidence issued by a judge or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it typically take to get an Real ID card?
Prior to recently renewing your license was only a letter from the mail telling you it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or go into certain federal buildings or military bases, then you require an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards with regard to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government says the new rules will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide that will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you visit the office to complete 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 that includes the name and date of birth and two proofs of New York residency. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes are not accepted).
You'll require passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This can allow you to get discounts on flights and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. Use the calculator at the DMV to determine how much a REAL or Enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These companies may use your documents to serve fraudulent reasons, so do not provide them with images.