Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already features a star at the upper-right side, you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring with you several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out 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 the highest security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable that can be used for travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not include a star in the upper right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You will need to upgrade if you want one. Check here to determine whether your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining an Real ID in New York is relatively easy. First, you have to go to an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. 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 as well as two other evidence of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees Your identity will be verified. This is followed by an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved, the Secretary of State will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be noted as such on your document.
It is important to remember that if you plan to travel internationally, you will require a passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. This will also be the case if you plan to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport before they can travel.
How do I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows applicants to check on the status of their application as well as determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when trying get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be marked as such and will not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, which includes boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of ways to get 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 travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have an authentic passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold star in the top right corner of your card. Cards that aren't compliant do not have the gold star.
If you aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or an 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 are not valid for air travel between those destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They should also present an ID with a valid photo as well as evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. führerschein kaufen legal in deutschland Fuehrerscheinn required will vary depending on the situation but typically include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an actual ID?
The documents you will have to submit to the DMV will differ based on what you are doing. There are some important things you should never forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two forms of documentation that confirm your identity. You are able to carry a valid passport or driver's licence, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. This can be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you take a picture that meets the specifications. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear picture which shows their face.
Once you have the required documents, you can apply to the DMV to get your Real ID. You must apply in person, and you'll need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to reserve a seat. This will help you avoid long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. You'll have to pay different fees for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence or changing the New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you'll also have to show proof of your social security number. If you're applying for a Real ID driver's license or an Enhanced ID, the DMV will require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your identity proofs legal standing, 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 what caused the change.
How long does it usually take to get an Real ID card?
Up until recently renewing your license was only a letter in the post telling you it was time to renew. But now, if you want to fly or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. It's not too late to obtain an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it harder for criminals who want 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 to enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll have to bring specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will assist you in understanding what documents you require when you visit the office to fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need a birth certificate or other document that is certified by the public with your name and date of your birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These can include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online documents. Boxes can't be used).
Based on your age, you'll also require either the passport or an official immigration document. If you're a Veteran, you can add a special designation on your license or ID that shows you were a member of 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 might not require anything more in regards to renewing. Use the calculator at the DMV to determine the amount an enhanced or REAL photo document will cost you, and what documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used to commit fraud.