Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features an asterisk in the upper-right side, you are already REAL ID compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
For those who need an ID with a real name You will need to visit the DMV office and bring several proofs of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's licence or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it obliges states to comply with certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an additional secure and reliable method 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, 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 compliant by clicking here.
The process of getting the Real ID in New York is relatively easy. First, you must visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You must provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency with a valid ID picture and two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork 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, the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your document.
It is important to remember that if you intend on traveling internationally, you'll need to have the passport instead of a Real ID. A passport is a more reliable and robust type of identification, and you will require it with you to travel to other countries. This will also be the case if you plan to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to have a REAL ID or a valid passport in order to travel.
How do I obtain a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help people to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document checklist, allows applicants to monitor the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their driver's licenses and state identification cards. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to obtain a Real ID. This includes online or over the phone or in-person.
A Real ID is any driver's license, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is in compliance with federal law. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you possess an active passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. 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 get an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that's in line with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used on flights between these destinations.
The applicants will have to visit the DMV in person to obtain an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo with a valid validity, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstances but typically contain one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state can be a utility statement or bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I need to bring to DMV in order to get a real ID?
The documents you will need to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. There are some important things you shouldn't forget to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of documentation that can prove your identity. You are able to present a valid passport, driver's licence, or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves you live 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. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to take a picture that meets the specifications. The exact requirements for a picture will vary depending on your situation, but most people need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and 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 which means you'll have to go to either an DMV or a partner office, like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and their hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation prior to when you arrive at the DMV. This will allow you to avoid long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photo, and the card itself. There are different fees to pay if you're applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing license, or changing an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also be required to show proof of your Social Security number. If you are applying for a Real ID driver's license or an Enhanced ID, the DMV will need to confirm your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your identity proofs or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must submit evidence issued by a judge or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does Fuehrerscheinn take to get a Real ID?
Prior to recently renewal of your license was only a letter from the post telling you that it was time to renew. But now, if you are planning to fly or visit some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to obtain an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government says that the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter some federal facilities, like bases for military personnel.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of your identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you visit the office to fill out your application.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or print online documents (documents with P.O. These can include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes can't be used).
Depending on your age, you'll also need to have either a passport or an official immigration document. If you're a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your ID or license indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets as well as assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you want an enhanced or REAL photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to 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 websites because they could be used for fraudulent purposes.