Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
For those who need an ID with a real name You will need to visit an DMV office and present 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 license or state identification card that is compliant with higher security 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 for issuing or renewing driver's licenses and identification card. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure, which can be used for travel, police, and other government facilities.
If you have a standard 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'll have to upgrade in order to obtain one. Click here to check if your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, motorradführerschein kaufen have to go to a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need proof of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an ID with a valid photo as well as two other documents of residency and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees Your identity will be verified and 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 in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
It is important to remember that if you intend to travel internationally, you will require the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable type of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you to travel abroad. This is also the case when you wish to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers have a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can travel.
How do I get a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help applicants to navigate 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 must bring to their local DMV. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying to get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities. The DMV provides a variety of options 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. It is required for air travel within the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you have a valid passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you are unable to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel by land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but can't be used to fly between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit a DMV office in person. They will also have to bring an ID photo with a valid validity and evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The exact documents that are acceptable will depend on the situation, but usually include one document for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub with their name and address on it.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The documents you will have to submit to the DMV depend on the type of work you are doing. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. You should carry a valid passport or driver's licence or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you reside in New York. This can be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Finally, be sure to provide a photo that is in line with the standards. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that shows their face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, which means you'll need to visit an 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.
If you are going to the DMV make sure to reserve a seat. This will allow you to avoid long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph and the card itself. The cost will differ when you apply for an entirely new driver's license, renewing an license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you will 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 that appears on your identity proofs legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you will have to provide evidence from a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to obtain an Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as easy as receiving a letter which informed you that it was time to renew. But now, if you want to fly or enter some federal structures and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. It's not too late to get a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules 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 certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll need to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will walk you through what you need to have to bring to the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another type of certified public record with the name and date of birth and two proofs of New York residency. This can be a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online documents. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll need a passport, or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could enable you to receive discounts on airfare and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. Check the DMV's calculator to determine how much an enhanced or REAL photo ID will cost, and the documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. These companies may use your documents for fraudulent purposes, so you should not send them images.