Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you're real ID-compliant and there's nothing more you have to do.
If you are in need of an ID with a real name, you will have to visit a DMV office and bring evidence of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.

What is a real ID?
Real ID is a security driver's license or an state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for travel, police and 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 need to upgrade if you wish to have one. Check here to determine whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of getting the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and the required documents. You will be required to provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency, a valid ID photo and two proofs of residency and the fee of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the nearest 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 an identity check. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be indicated on your document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. A passport is more secure and reliable type of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you in order to travel to other countries. This will also be the case if you plan to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport before they can fly.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing a number of online tools to help people to navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that allows people to check the status of their application and decide what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that people 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 labeled as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, including taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers various options to get an authentic ID, such as via the internet, 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 unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right corner to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have a gold star.
If you are not able to meet the requirements for the Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these countries.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit a DMV office in person. They will also have to carry an ID photo that is valid as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but generally contain one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an ID that is genuine?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you are doing. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. This could be a valid driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring some form of proof that proves you are a resident of New York. It could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address --- P.O.
Make sure you take a picture that meets the specifications. The requirements for a photo will differ depending on the circumstances. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have all the required documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally which means you'll have to visit either the DMV or partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you will find a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
When you arrive at the DMV make sure to reserve a seat. This will save you from long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You will have to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. 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 also need to provide proof of your social security number. The DMV must verify your date of birth 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 have on your identity proof or lawful status Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will have to present a courtor a government-issued document that explains the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long does it typically take to get an Real ID card?
Up until recently renewing your license was only a letter in the mail advising you it was time to renew. But now, if you would like to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. It's not too late for you to obtain 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 modify or counterfeit 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, including military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide 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, pay stub that has your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or printed online documents (documents that have P.O. Boxes can't be used).
You'll require a passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you are an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your ID or license indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. führerschein kaufen ohne vorkasse could enable you to get discounts on airfare and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo document, check the DMV's online calculator for the cost and the types of documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these websites, as they could be used for fraudulent purposes.