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.
If you require an actual ID you must visit an DMV office and present several evidence 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, demands that states adhere to certain standards for issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have a gold star in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you will need to upgrade in order to obtain one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
The process of obtaining a Real ID in New York is fairly easy. First, you need to visit an 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 a valid photo ID as well as two other evidence of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Finder.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees your identity will be verified. This is followed by 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 a REAL ID, it will be marked as an official document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. Passports are a more reliable and robust form of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you in order to travel to other countries. You will need an ID card or passport to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that enables applicants to assess 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 can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. Those who do not comply will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a range of options for people to get a Real ID. This includes online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have a valid passport. You can recognize a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the top right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display a gold star.
If you're not capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel on either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they are not valid to travel by air between those destinations.
Individuals must go to the DMV in person to get an Real ID, or enhanced document. They must present a valid photo ID, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary depending on the situation but usually will include one document for each category. For example the proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, a bank statement or pay stubs with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get a real ID?
The documents you will have to submit to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. However there are some key things you should always be sure to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of proof that prove your identity. You can carry a valid passport or driver's licence, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. This can be something like an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you take a picture that meets the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ based on the specific situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photo that clearly shows their face.
Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. legalen führerschein kaufen will need to apply in person, so you will need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and hours on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV, be sure to reserve a seat. This will help you avoid long waiting times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee, the photo and the card. You'll have to pay different fees for applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing licence, or changing the New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you will be required 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 on your proof of identity, lawful status, and Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a court- or government-issued proof documenting the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long will it take to obtain an Real ID?
Up until recently renewing your license was only a note in the mail telling you that it was time to renew. However, now if you are planning to fly or visit some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals who want to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter some federal facilities, including bases for military.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll need to provide specific proof of your identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or an 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 fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another document that is certified by the public that includes the name and date of birth and two proofs of New York residency. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documents (documents that have P.O. Boxes are not acceptable.
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either the passport or an official immigration document. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of 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 in the event that you already have a valid. Check the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or Enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you'll need. There are websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used for fraudulent purposes.