Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features an asterisk in the upper-right corner, then you already have a REAL ID that is compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
For those who need a REAL ID, you will have to visit the DMV office and bring evidence of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a true 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. It obliges states to comply with certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure and can be used for travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to get one. Check here to determine whether your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of getting a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and required documents. You must provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid your fees, your identity will be verified and a background check will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send you a new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID and it is approved, it will be branded as such on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable method of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you in order to travel to other countries. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help people to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is an Youtube video that will help applicants avoid common mistakes that many make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their driver's licenses and state identification cards. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways for people to obtain a Real ID, including online, by phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without a valid passport. You can identify a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you aren't 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 conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. related are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used for air travel between these countries.
Individuals must visit the DMV in person to obtain a Real ID, or enhanced document. They should also bring an acceptable photo ID and proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will vary based on their situation, but usually include the same evidence for each of the categories. For example, proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the state could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub with their name and address on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you'll have to bring to the DMV will differ depending on your particular situation. However, there are a few essential things you must remember to bring with you. First, you must bring two pieces of proof that can prove your identity. This can be something like a valid driver's licence, passport, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring some form of proof that proves you are a resident of New York. This could be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must have your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you provide a photo that is in line with the requirements. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photo which shows their face.
Once you have all the required documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own which means you'll have to go to either an DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can see the complete list of offices and their operating hours.
Make a reservation prior to when you visit the DMV. This will prevent you from long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will need to pay for the application, a photo, and the card itself. You'll have to pay different fees for applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing license or changing an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
You will also have to show 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 see on your proofs of identity or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must provide proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it usually take to get an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter in the mail telling you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, now you require an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals trying to modify or counterfeit 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 enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will help you understand the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to complete your application.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, pay stub with your current address or print online documents (documents with P.O. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address, or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes are not acceptable).
You'll need a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This could enable you to receive discounts on airfare as well as assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you're looking for an enhanced or real photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and the documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used for fraud purposes.