Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's licence already has an asterisk in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, you'll need to visit the DMV and bring numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states meet certain requirements in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable type 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 doesn't include a star in the upper-right corner, it's not REALID-compliant. You'll need to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
The process for obtaining an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit an 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 as well as an ID with a valid photo as well as two other evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist 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. This is followed by an investigation of your background 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 DL/ID standard in the mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
It is important to remember that if you plan to travel internationally, you will require the passport instead of a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more trustworthy method of identification. You'll need an ID card or passport to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing a number of online tools that can help applicants get through the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows applicants to track the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a 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 card. Anyone who does not meet the standards will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers various ways to apply for an authentic ID, such as online, by phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025, it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess a valid passport. You can tell if you have the Real ID by looking for a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that aren't conforming do not have the gold star.
If you are unable to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. führerschein zum kaufen are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used on flights between these destinations.
The applicants will have to go to the DMV in person to get a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also be required to carry a valid ID photo and proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on the situation, but usually include the same evidence 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 stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an actual ID?
The specific documents you will need to bring with you to the DMV will differ based on the circumstances. However, there are a few important things you must keep in mind to bring. First, be sure to bring two forms of documentation that confirm your identity. You are able to bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves you are a resident of New York. This could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address (please note that P.O. This can be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address --- P.O.
Make sure you take a picture that meets the specifications. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photo which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, which means you will need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV make sure to reserve a seat. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will have to pay the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will differ depending on whether you are applying for an entirely new driver's license, renewing or renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you will also have to show proof of your social security number. The DMV must verify your birth date and name with the Social Security Administration if you are applying for an Enhanced ID or Real ID driver's licence. 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 normally take to receive an Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter telling you it was time to renew. Now, if would like to fly or enter some federal structures and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to obtain a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government says that the new regulations will make it more difficult for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter some federal facilities, like bases for military.
You'll have to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV to meet the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide that will help you understand what documents you need when you go to the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another form of certified public record with your name and date of your birth and two evidences of New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online documents. Boxes cannot be used).
You'll need either a passport, or an official immigration document based on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could enable you to get discounts on airfare as well as assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Go to the DMV's calculator to determine how much a REAL or enhanced photo ID will cost, and the documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used for fraudulent purposes.