Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features an asterisk in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID compliant. You don't need to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID, then you'll have to go to the DMV and bring with you several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's licence or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to adhere to certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable that can be used for travel, police and government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can check whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
The process for obtaining a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and required documents. You will be required to provide evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Finder.
After you have submitted all the required documents and paid the fees, the secretary of state will confirm your identity and conduct a background check. 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 noted on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more reliable form of identification. This will also be the case if you want to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to have an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid applicants in completing their application to obtain an Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to check the status of their application and identify what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid common mistakes that many make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses as well as state identification cards. Those who do not comply will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal facilities. The DMV provides a variety of options for individuals to obtain a real ID. These include online or over the phone or in-person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you hold valid passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right corner of your card. eu führerschein kaufen erfahrungen -compliant cards are not able to display the gold star.

If you're not in a position to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but can't be used for air travel between those destinations.
To obtain an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They must present an acceptable photo ID, proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The exact documents that are acceptable will depend on the situation, but typically they will have one document for each category. For example the proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, while evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The exact documents you have to bring to the DMV will differ depending on your particular situation. There are a few important things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be something like a valid driver's licence or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a document that shows that you reside in New York. This can be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address and address - P.O. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -P.O. P.O.
Be sure to bring a photo that meets the requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending 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 to the DMV for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, so you will need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can see all the offices and hours of operation.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you arrive at the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or changing an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also 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 identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long will it take to get an Real ID?
Up until recently renewing your license was only a letter in the mail advising you it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or enter certain federal structures or military bases, you need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. The clock is moving, but it's not enough time to get your 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 to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter some federal facilities, like bases for military personnel.
You'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will walk you through the documents you must bring to bring to the office to fill out the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or another form of certified public record with your name and date of your birth and two evidences of New York residency. This could include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online documentation. Boxes can't be used).
Based on your age, you'll also require either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you're a veteran you can put a special designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on your airline tickets and help with finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you want a REAL or an Enhanced photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.