Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you require a real ID, you'll be required to visit the DMV and bring 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 license or state identification card that is compliant with higher security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states meet certain standards for issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary 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 need to upgrade to get one. Click here to check whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining the Real ID in New York is quite simple. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and the required documents. You'll need proof of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and a valid photo ID and two documents of residency and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid your fees The secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct an investigation into your background. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID and it is approved, it will be branded as such on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. A passport is more secure and reliable form of identification, and you'll require it with you in order to travel internationally. This will also be the case if you want to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to possess real ID or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools that can help applicants navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to check on the status of their application and determine which documents they should bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when trying get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. Those who do not comply will be tagged and not be permitted to use their IDs for federal purposes. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options to get a Real ID. This includes online, 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 in compliance with federal law. It is required to travel on air within the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you hold an active passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards don't have the gold star.
For those who aren't capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel on land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but are not valid for air travel between those destinations.
Individuals must go to the DMV in person to get a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also be required to bring an ID photo with a valid validity, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstances but generally include one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency can be a utility statement, bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you will need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you're doing. There are some important things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You can present a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring proof of residency that proves your residency in New York. This could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address and address - P.O. This can be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O.
Finally, be sure to take a picture that meets the specifications. The requirements for a photograph will differ based on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. Click Link must apply personally which means you'll have to go to either a DMV or partner office such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you arrive at the DMV. This will save you from long waiting times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. You'll have to pay different fees when applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence, or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you will be required to provide proof of your social security number. If you are 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 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, then you must provide evidence issued by a judge or government documenting what caused the change.
How long does it usually take to get an Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as receiving a letter in the mail that told you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, now you need an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to get 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 says the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies, like 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 bases for military.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide which will help you understand what documents you need when you go to the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or some other document that is certified by the public with the name and date of your birth, as well as two proofs of New York residency. These can include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or online documents (documents with P.O. 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 a veteran, you can include a specific designation on your license or ID that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets and help with finding a place to live.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you aren't required to do anything else in regards to renewing. Check the DMV's calculator to determine how much a REAL or enhanced photo ID will cost, and the documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these websites because they could be used for fraud purposes.