Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's licence already has a star in the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID then you will be required to visit the DMV and bring along various 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 licence or state identification card that is compliant with the highest 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 standards for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure, which can be used for air travel, police and government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant, and you'll need to upgrade in order to obtain one. Check here to determine whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of obtaining an Real ID in New York is fairly easy. First, you need to visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid your fees your identity will be verified and a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will send you a new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
It is crucial to remember that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll require the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable form of identification, and you will require it with you in order to travel internationally. This is also the case if you want to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to possess an ID with a REAL name 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 people navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that allows applicants to assess the status of their application and determine the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that 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 licenses and state identification cards. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various options for people to obtain Real IDs, including via the internet, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an active passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. Non-compliant cards don't have the gold star.
If you aren't capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies 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 for air travel between these countries.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit an DMV office in person. They will also be required to bring an ID photo that is valid, evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ depending on the situation but typically will include one document for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, while proof of state residency could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stubs 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 bring to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. There are a few essential things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You can bring a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows that you are a resident of New York. This could be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have 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 requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that clearly shows their face.
Once you have the required documents you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own, so you'll need to visit either the DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website you will get a complete list of offices and their operating hours.
When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to make a reservation. This will save you from long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. The cost will vary when you apply for an entirely new driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you'll also need 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 you see on your identity proofs or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must provide evidence from a court or government documenting what caused the change.
How long does it typically take to get an Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as getting the letter which informed you that it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or access certain federal buildings or military bases, now you require a REALID or enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to apply for a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards with regard to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it harder for criminals trying to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or an enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to meet the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will help you understand the documents you must bring to bring to the office to fill in the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or some other type of certified public record that includes the name and date of your birth and two proofs of New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes are not acceptable.
Depending on your age, you'll also require either a passport or an official immigration document. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to receive discounts on airfare as well as assistance with housing.
If Fuehrerscheinn , you may not need to do anything more in regards to renewing. Use the calculator at the DMV to determine the amount an enhanced or REAL photo document will cost, and what documents you require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These companies could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, therefore you should not send them images.