Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're real ID-compliant and there is nothing further you have to do.
For those who need an ID with a real name you must visit a DMV office and present several evidence of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a true 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 obliges states to comply with certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure and can be used for travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star in the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is in compliance by clicking here.
The process of obtaining the Real ID in New York is fairly simple. First, you have to go to a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid the fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, the secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct an identity check. If you are approved by the Secretary of state you will receive your new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
It is crucial to remember that if you are planning to travel internationally, you will need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. You will need a passport or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid applicants in completing their application for the Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to check the status of their application and determine what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes they make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and won't be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a range of options for individuals to get a Real ID. They can be obtained online or 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 complies with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have a gold star.
If you are not able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can still get an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid to travel on land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but are not valid to fly between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit an DMV office in person. They must present an acceptable photo ID, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact document that is acceptable will vary based on their situation, but typically they will have the same evidence for each category. The proof 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 documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get a real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you're doing. There are a few important items you must not forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be something like a valid driver's licence, passport, or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you reside in New York. This could be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).

Be sure to take a picture that meets the specifications. The specific requirements for a photograph will differ based on the situation, but most people need to take a face-to-face photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person and you'll need to visit either an DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can find a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
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 in New York varies depending on your situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph and the card itself. führerschein kaufen legal will be different when you apply for the first time a driver's license, renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you'll also need 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 on your identity proof legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll need to bring in courtor government-issued proof of the events that caused the name change.
How long does it usually take to get a Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license was as easy as getting the letter telling you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. The clock is moving, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals who want to counterfeit 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 to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identification to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online guide to documents that will help you understand what documents you require when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. This 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).
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either the passport or an official immigration document. If you're a veteran, you can add a special designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on your airline tickets and help with finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. If you're interested in a REAL or an Enhanced photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and the documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from home, but these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These companies may utilize your documents for fraud reasons, so do not provide them with images.