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 a real ID, you'll have to go to the DMV and bring with you numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out 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, and it requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the law is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable, which can be used for air travel, law enforcement and 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'll need to upgrade to get one. You can check whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process to get a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you have to go to a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees Your identity will be verified and an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID, it will be marked as such on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll require a passport rather than a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more trustworthy form of identification. This will also be the case if you plan to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can travel.
How do I get an Real ID?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist applicants in completing their application to obtain a Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that allows applicants to review the status of their application and decide what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. mouse click the next article can help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licences and state identification card. Those that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and won't be able to use them for federal purposes, such as the boarding of domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV provides a variety of options for individuals to obtain a Real ID. They can be obtained online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies with federal law. In May 2025, it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess an active passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the top right corner of your card. Cards that aren't conforming do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can get 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 maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
The applicants will have to visit the DMV in person to get an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry a valid ID photo as well as proof 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. For example the proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill, bank statement or pay stubs with their address and name on it.
What do I need 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're doing. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, be sure to bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. This could be something like a valid driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you reside in New York. This could be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address --- P.O.
Finally, be sure to take a picture that meets the requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, so you'll need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can see a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to make a reservation. This will help you avoid long wait periods.
The cost of a Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You will have to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will differ depending on whether you are applying for an entirely new driver's license, renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
You will also be required to show proof of your Social Security number. If you're 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 you have on your proof of identity legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a courtor government-issued proof of the events that led to the name change.
How long does it usually take to receive an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as getting the letter which informed you that it was time to renew. But now, if you would like to fly or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals trying to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, like bases for military personnel.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll need 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 which will help you to know what documents you need when you visit the office to complete your 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 and two proofs of New York residency. These can include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online documents. Boxes can't be used).
Depending on your age, you'll also require either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on flights and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you're looking for a REAL or an Enhanced photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. These companies could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.