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 is nothing further you need to do.
If you require a real ID then you will have to go to the DMV and bring along various proofs of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.
What is a true ID?
Real ID is an enhanced security driver's licence or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers licenses and identification cards. The goal of the law 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 your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can check whether or not your credential is in compliance by clicking here.
The process for obtaining an Real ID in New York is relatively simple. First, you need to visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will need to provide evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an ID with a valid photo as well as two other evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid the fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, the secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct an investigation into your background. If you are approved, the Secretary of State will send you a new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll require a passport rather than a Real ID. A passport is an extremely reliable and durable form of identification, and you'll have to carry it with you in order to travel abroad. You will need an ID card or passport 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 navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to check the status of their application and identify the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. States that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and won't be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes the boarding of domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. click through the following article offers a variety of ways to get Real IDs, including online, by 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 have an authentic passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that are not conforming do not have the gold star.
If you aren't able 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 are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used on flights between these destinations.
Individuals must visit the DMV in person to obtain an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also be required to carry an ID photo with a valid validity, proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but typically will include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state can be a utility statement, bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The specific documents you will need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. There are a few important things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You should carry a valid passport or driver's licence or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you are a resident of New York. This can be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address and address - P.O. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address --- P.O.
Make sure you take a picture that meets the requirements. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that clearly shows their face.
Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own which means you'll have to visit either an DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will get all the offices and hours of operation.
If you are going to the DMV make sure to book a reservation. This will save you from long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll have to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will be different if you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you'll be required to provide proof of your social security number. If you are 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 identity proof 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'll be required to submit a court applicationor government-issued proof of the events that caused the name change.
How long does it typically take to receive an Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter in the mail that told you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or access certain federal buildings or military bases, then you need a REALID or enhanced driver's licence. It's not too late for you to apply for a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government says the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies, such as the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
You'll have to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you visit the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need birth certificate or some other document that is certified by the public with your name and date of your birth, as well as two proofs of New York residency. This could include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes are not accepted).
Depending on your age, you'll also require either the passport or an official immigration document. If you're a Veteran, you can include a specific designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding a place to live.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more in terms of renewing. If you want an enhanced or REAL photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator for the cost and the documents you'll require. sneak a peek here claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.