Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner, then you are REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing else you have to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, you'll be required to visit the DMV and bring along numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a security driver's licence or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States, requires that states meet certain requirements for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The aim of the act is to create a more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, 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 gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade to get one. Click here to find out whether your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you must visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency and a valid ID photograph and two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have paid your fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, the secretary of state will confirm your identity and conduct an identity check. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be marked as an official document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are planning on traveling internationally, you'll need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, since it is a more secure form of identification. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How do I obtain a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools that can help applicants navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows applicants to assess the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be marked as such and won't be able to use them for federal purposes, including the boarding of 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 any driver's licence, permit or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. It will be required for air travel within the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you possess valid passport. You can tell if you have the Real ID by looking for a gold star in the top right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display the gold star.
If you are unable to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can still get 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 some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these destinations.
The applicants will have to go to the DMV in person to get a Real ID, or enhanced document. They must present a valid photo ID, proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary depending on the situation but typically contain one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state can be a utility statement or bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The specific documents you'll need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. You are able to carry a valid passport or driver's license or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring proof of residency that proves your residence in New York. This could be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address and address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will differ based on the situation however, the majority of people have to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally and you'll need to visit either a DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website you will get a complete list of offices and hours of operation.
Make a reservation before you go to the DMV. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You will have to pay the application fee as well as the photo card. You'll have to pay different fees when applying for a driver's licence, renewing an existing license or converting the New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you'll be required to provide 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 verify your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name that appears on your identity proofs or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must provide proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long will it take to obtain a Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license required only a letter from the post telling you that it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government says the new regulations will make it more difficult for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID, or an Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV to meet federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will guide you through the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to complete your application.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. These can include an utility bill, a bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or online documentation (documents with P.O. 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 an active veteran, it's 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 qualify for discounts on flights and help 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 a REAL or enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send Fuehrerscheinn of your personal documents to these websites since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.