Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you are REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing else you have to do.
If you require a REAL ID, you will have to visit an DMV office and bring several documents of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is an enhanced security driver's license or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following 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 an additional secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star on the upper right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you want one. Check here to determine whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining a Real ID in New York is relatively easy. First, you must visit an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an acceptable photo ID as well as two other proofs of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid the 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 DL/ID standard in the mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
It is crucial to remember that if you are planning to travel internationally, you will require a passport instead of a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, since it is a more secure source of identification. You'll require an ID card or passport to take commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist applicants in completing their application to obtain the Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and decide the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an 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. Those that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, including taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways to apply for an authentic ID, such as via the internet, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an active passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
If you're not capable of meeting 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 can be used to travel by either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but cannot be used to fly between these destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo that is valid and proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on the circumstances, but they should usually have one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill or bank statement, as well as a pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. However, there are a few essential things you must remember to bring with you. First, make sure you bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. You are able to bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves you are a resident of New York. legal führerschein kaufen can be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to provide a photo that is in line with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will vary based on the circumstances However, most people will need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, and you'll need to go to a DMV office or one of their partner offices, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will find all the offices and hours of operation.
When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay for the application, a photograph and the card itself. There are different fees to pay if you're applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence or changing a New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory 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 see on your documents of identity or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you will have to provide evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it take to get an Real ID?
In the past renewing your license was only a letter from the mail advising you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or a driver's license with an enhanced version. It's not too late to get an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals trying 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 some federal facilities, including bases for military.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will guide you through what you need to have to bring to the office to fill out the paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need birth certificate or some other form of certified public record with your name and date of your birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These can include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll need passport or an official immigration document based on your age. 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 could qualify you for discounts on your flight tickets and assist you in finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you aren't required to do anything else in terms of renewing. If you're interested in an enhanced or REAL photo document, check the DMV's online calculator to see how much it will cost and the documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from home, but these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These websites could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, so you should not send them images.