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 are REAL ID compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you need a REAL ID then you will be required to visit the DMV and bring several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a true 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 was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and to enter secure government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to get one. Click here to check whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of obtaining an Real ID in New York is relatively simple. The first step is to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You must submit evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency with a valid ID picture and two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the fees, your identity will be verified. This is followed by a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will send your new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be branded as an official document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. This is also the case if you want to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess real ID or a valid passport in order to fly.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid those applying for the Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to check the status of their application and decide the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. investigate this site can help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licences and state identification card. States that do not comply with the law will be marked as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, which includes boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options for individuals to get a Real ID. These include online or over the phone or in-person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's licence, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025, it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have an authentic passport. Look for a gold star in the card's top right corner to identify the RealID. Cards that aren't conforming do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that conforms 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 can't be used to fly between these destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to acquire an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to bring a valid ID photo and proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but typically will include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility invoice or bank statement, as well as a pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. This can be something like a valid driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. This can be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address and address - P.O. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O.
Bring a photo in conformity with the guidelines. The specific requirements for a photograph will vary based on your situation, but most people need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally and you'll need to go to either a DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will find a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
Make a reservation prior to when you go to the DMV. This will help you avoid long waiting times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photo, and the card itself. There are different fees to pay when applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license or changing the New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also need to show 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 that appears on your documents of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must submit proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to obtain an Real ID?
Prior to recently renewal of your license was only a note in the mail telling you that it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or enter certain federal structures or military bases, now 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 mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals who want to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide which will help you understand the documents you'll need when you go to the office to fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or another document that is certified by the public that includes the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. These could include an utility bill, a bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or printed online documents (documents that have P.O. Boxes aren't acceptable).
Depending on your age, you'll also require either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you're a veteran you can include a specific designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which can allow you to receive discounts on your airline tickets and help with finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do any more when it comes to renewing. If you're looking for a REAL or an Enhanced photo document, check the DMV's online calculator for how much it will cost and the documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used to commit fraud.