Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already has a star at the upper-right corner, then you already have a REAL ID that is compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you require a real ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring along several proofs of your 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 meets the highest security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it obliges states to comply with certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and 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 a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant and you'll have to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to find out whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of getting the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, read here must visit an 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 and a valid ID photograph and two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the required documents and paid your fees The secretary of state will confirm your identity and conduct an investigation into your background. 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 the ID will be marked as the same on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require a passport rather than a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable form of identification. You will need an ID card or passport to board commercial flights in the United States.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist applicants in completing their application to obtain a Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. If they do not conform with the law will be branded as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, including the boarding of domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways to apply for a Real ID, including online, by phone, or in person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies 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 hold valid passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the top right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display a gold star.
If you're not in a position to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these countries.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have 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 state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but generally will include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice or bank statement, as well as a 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 have to bring to the DMV will differ depending on your situation. There are a few important things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You can present a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring proof of residency that proves you are a resident of New York. This can be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must indicate your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to take a picture that meets the standards. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the specific situation. However, most people are required to take a clear picture which shows their face.
Once you have the necessary documents you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You must apply in person, so you'll need to go to a DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you visit the DMV. This will save you from long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll have to pay for the application fee, the photo and the card. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing license or changing a New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you will 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 have on your proof of identity legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will have to present a court- or government-issued proof documenting the events that caused the name change.
How long does it typically take to get an Real ID card?
In the past renewal of your license was only a note in the mail advising you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or enter certain federal structures or military bases, now you'll need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to apply for 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 the new regulations will make it harder 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, to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV in order to satisfy 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 guide that will guide you through the documents you must bring to bring to the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll need a birth certificate or other document that is certified by the public that includes the name and date of birth and two documents proving your New York residency. This could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or online documents (documents that have P.O. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll need either passport or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're a veteran, you can put a special designation on your license or ID that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on flight tickets and assist you in finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do anything else in terms of renewing. If you want an enhanced or real photo document, check the DMV's online calculator to determine how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents for fraudulent purposes, so you should not send them images.