Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
If you need a REAL ID then you will have to go to the DMV and bring with you several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or an state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to meet certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for air travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not include a star in the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is valid by clicking here.
The process to get an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with required documents. You must submit proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees, your identity will be checked and an investigation of your background will be 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 an REAL ID it will be stated on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. This is also the case when you wish to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to have a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can fly.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to review the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and identification cards. If they do not, they are tagged and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a range of options for people to obtain a real ID. They can be obtained online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. It will be required for air travel within the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you hold a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right corner to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards are not able to display the gold star.
If you are not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel by land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit the DMV office in person. They will also need to bring an acceptable photo ID, proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on the situation, but typically they will have one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency could be a utility bill or bank statement, as well as a pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to get a real ID?
The specific documents you'll have to bring to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. However, there are a few key things you should always be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. You can bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows you live in 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. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address -- P.O.
Bring a photo that is in accordance with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the specific situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photo which shows their face.
Once you have the required documents you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You have to apply in person, which means you'll need to go to the DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can find the complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to reserve a seat. This will prevent you from long waiting periods.
The cost of the Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay the application fee as well as the photo card. You will pay different fees if you're applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license or changing a New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you will also have to show proof of your social security number. If you're applying for an Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will need to confirm your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you have on your proof of identity legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will have to present a court- or government-issued proof documenting the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long does it usually take to get a Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your license required only a letter from the mail telling you that it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, then you require a REALID or enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to obtain an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government says that the new rules will make it more difficult for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
You'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to satisfy federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online guide to documents that will assist you in understanding what documents you require when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, or pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes are not accepted).
Depending on your age, you'll also need to have either a passport or an official immigration document. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID indicating that you served in the U.S. visit the next document . This can allow you to qualify for discounts on airfare and assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do any more in terms of renewing. If you want an enhanced or REAL photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and the documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used for fraud purposes.