Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you are REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you require an ID with a real name You will need to visit a DMV office and bring proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a genuine ID?
A Real ID is a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to meet certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create a more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. You can determine whether or not your credential is in compliance by clicking here.
The process for obtaining the Real ID in New York is relatively straightforward. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, an acceptable photo ID and two evidence of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the nearest 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 conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of state you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. Passports are an extremely reliable and durable method of identification, and you will have to carry it with you in order to travel abroad. You'll need a passport or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I obtain an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants get through the process of applying for an Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to check the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. Those who do not comply will be marked and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of ways to apply for an authentic ID, such as online, by 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 travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Cards that are not conforming do not have the gold star.
If you are unable to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance 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 are not valid to fly between these destinations.
To obtain an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They must present an acceptable photo ID and evidence of US citizenship and state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on their situation, but usually include one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The documents you will have to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you're doing. However there are some essential things you must remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be something like a valid driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring eu führerschein kaufen erfahrungen that shows that you reside in New York. This could 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).
Bring a picture that is in conformity with the guidelines. The exact requirements for a picture will vary depending on your 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 the required documents, you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You have to apply in person, which means you will need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you will get the complete list of offices and their operating hours.
When you visit the DMV make sure to make a reservation. This will save you from long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You will have to pay the application fee, the photo and the card. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence, or converting the New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also need to provide proof of your Social Security number. führerschein kaufen erfahrungen 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 on your proof of identity or lawful status Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will be required to submit a court applicationor a government-issued document that explains the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long will it normally take to get an Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license required only a note in the mail advising you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or access certain federal structures or military bases, you need an enhanced driver's licence. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals trying to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID, or an Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll need to provide specific proof 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 guide you through the information you need to bring to bring to the office to fill in your paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or print online documentation (documents with P.O. This could include an utility bill, a bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes cannot 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 travel tickets as well as help in finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you aren't required to do any more when it comes to renewing. Check the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or enhanced photo document will cost, and the documents you'll need. There are websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These companies could use your documents for fraudulent purposes, therefore you should not send them images.