Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's licence already has a star in the upper-right corner, then you already have a REAL ID that is compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you are in need of a REAL ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring along various proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets the highest security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable and can be used to travel on air, for police, and other 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'll have to upgrade to obtain one. You can determine whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process for obtaining an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and required documents. You must provide evidence 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). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have paid your fees The secretary of state will confirm your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally, since it is a more trustworthy method of identification. This is also the case if you want to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess a REAL ID or a valid passport to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist people in the application process to obtain an Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to check the status of their application and determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. review who do not comply are tagged and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to obtain a Real ID. These include online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally recognized DMV-issued driver's licence, permit or non-driver ID card. It is required for air travel within the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you hold valid passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right corner to identify a RealID. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they cannot be used for air travel between those destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit a DMV office in person. They must bring an acceptable photo ID and proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on the situation, but usually include one piece of evidence for each of the categories. For instance, proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, while proof of state residency could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The specific documents you will must bring to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. However there are some essential things you must keep in mind to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You can bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you reside in New York. This can be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display 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 standards. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the specific situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary 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 get the complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
Make a reservation before you go to the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait periods.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph and the card itself. You'll have to pay different fees if you're applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing licence, or changing a New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you will be required to provide proof of your social security number. If you are applying for an Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will need to confirm your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name that appears on your proofs of identity legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you will have to provide evidence from a court or government documenting what caused the change.
How long does it typically take to receive a Real ID card?
Prior to recently renewal of your license was only a letter from the mail advising you that it was time to renew. However, now if you are planning to fly or visit some federal structures and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID 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 mandates that states meet certain security standards with regard to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or 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 in the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another type of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. This can be statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online documentation. Boxes are not 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 shows you were a member of the U.S. Military, which can allow you to receive discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and the types of documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used to commit fraud.