Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features a star at the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you are in need of an ID with a real name, you will have to visit an DMV office and present several evidence of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is an enhanced security driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states adhere to certain standards for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses and identification card. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for air travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant and you'll need to upgrade to get one. You can check whether or not your credential is in compliance by clicking here.
The process to get the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You must submit proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees, your identity will be checked and a background check will be 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 have been approved for a REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable method of identification. You'll require a passport or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools that can help applicants get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of the tools, a customized document check list, allows people to monitor the status of their application and determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and identification cards. If they do not, they are tagged and will not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. 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 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 unless you have an active passport. You can recognize a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards don't have the 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 complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel on maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but can't be used to travel by air between those destinations.
Individuals must go to the DMV in person to get a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo with a valid validity and evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but usually include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an actual ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will vary depending on your particular situation. However there are a few important things you must remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification proof. This could be a valid driver's license or passport or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you are a resident of New York. This could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address - P.O. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address -P.O. P.O.
Bring a photo in line with the requirements. The specific requirements for a photograph will differ based on the situation however, the majority of people have to take a face-to-face photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply in person, which means you'll need to go to an DMV office or one of their partner offices, such as DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation prior to when you go to the DMV. This will save you from long waiting times.
page of a Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. There are different fees to pay for applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing license, or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also be required to provide proof of your Social Security number. If you're applying for a Real ID driver's license or an Enhanced ID, the DMV will need to verify your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you have on your proof of identity, lawful status, and Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long does it take to obtain an Real ID?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as getting the letter in the mail telling you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, you need an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits 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 such as 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 military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identification to DMV to satisfy federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online guide to documents that will help you understand what documents you require 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 also need a birth certificate or other form of certified public record with your name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. This could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes are not acceptable.
You'll need either a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you are an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to get discounts on flights and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. Go to the DMV's calculator to determine the amount a REAL or Enhanced photo document will cost, and what documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these websites since they could be used to commit fraud.