Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID-compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
For those who need an ID with a real name You will need to visit an DMV office and bring several documents of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a security driver's licence or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to adhere to certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable that 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 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 in New York is quite simple. First, you have to go to a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You must provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture and two proofs of residency and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
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 and the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be indicated on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more secure form of identification. This is also the case when you wish to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess real ID or a valid passport before they can fly.
How do I get a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help applicants navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of the tools, a customized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application and determine which documents they should bring to their local DMV. 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 requires states to meet federal security standards for their driver's licenses and state identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and not be permitted to use them for federal purposes, including taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to obtain a Real ID. They can be obtained online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's licence, 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 authentic passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Cards that are not certified do not bear the gold star.
If you aren't capable of meeting the requirements for an Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an 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 they are not valid to travel by air between those destinations.
The applicants will have to go to the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also have to carry an ID photo that is valid, evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The exact document that is acceptable will vary based on their circumstances, but they should usually have the same evidence for each of the categories. For example evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with their name and address on it.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you will need to bring with you to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. However there are a few key things you should always 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 licence, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring some form of proof that proves your residence in New York. This could be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must show your current address (please note that P.O. This could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -- P.O.
Bring a photo in conformity with the guidelines. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on your situation however, the majority of people have to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can go to the DMV to apply 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 will get all the offices and hours of operation.

When you visit the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll need to pay for the application, a photograph and the card itself. The cost will vary when you apply for a new driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
You will also be required to provide 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 see on your documents of identity or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must submit evidence from a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it typically take to receive an Real ID card?
Up until recently renewing your license was only a letter in the post telling you it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or enter certain federal structures or military bases, you'll need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to get a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals trying to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter some federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll have to provide specific proof of identification to DMV in order to satisfy federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide which will help you to know what documents you need when you visit the office to fill out your application.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, or pay stub with your current address or print online documents (documents with P.O. These can include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online documents. Boxes are not acceptable).
führerschein kaufen legal in deutschland either a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you are an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to qualify for discounts on airfare and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you're looking for a REAL or an Enhanced photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to see how much it will cost and the documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents for fraudulent reasons, so do not send them images.