Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner then you are real ID-compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
For those who need an actual ID You will need to visit a DMV office and bring several proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a Real ID?
Real ID is a heightened security driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states meet certain requirements in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses and identification card. The purpose of the law is to create more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. You can check whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process of getting the Real ID in New York is quite simple. The first step is to go to an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and required documents. You will be required to submit evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Finder.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees your identity will be verified and a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.
It is important to remember that if you intend to travel internationally, you will need to have the passport instead of a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more secure source of identification. This is also the case if you want to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to have a REAL ID or a valid passport to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist those applying to obtain an Real ID. One of the tools, a customized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application as well as determine which documents they should bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. States that do not comply with the law will be marked as such and will not be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options to obtain a Real ID. These include online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. It will be required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you hold an active passport. Look for a gold star in the card's top right corner to identify the RealID. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used for air travel between these countries.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit the DMV office in person. They must bring a valid photo ID as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but usually contain one document for each category. For example, proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, while evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, a bank statement or pay stubs that have their name and address on it.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you're doing. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of proof that prove your identity. This could be an official driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves your residence in New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Finally, be sure to take a picture that meets the standards. The requirements for a photo will differ depending on the circumstances. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photo that clearly shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person which means you'll have to go to either a DMV or partner office such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV, be sure to make a reservation. This will prevent you from long wait periods.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will have to pay the application fee, the photo and the card. You will pay different fees when applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or changing a New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In you can try this out to the mandatory documents, you'll be required to provide proof of your social security number. If you are applying for an Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your identity proofs, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must submit evidence issued by a judge or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it typically take to get a Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter in the mail telling you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or access certain federal structures or military bases, then you need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations 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 for passengers to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll have to bring specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for an 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 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 some other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of your birth, as well as two proofs of New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes can't be used).
Depending on your age, you'll also require either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. Go to the DMV's calculator to determine how much an enhanced or REAL photo document will cost you, and the documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These websites could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, so you should not provide them with images.