Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you are REAL ID compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
For those who need an ID with a real name, you will have to visit a DMV office and present several evidence of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?
Real ID is a security driver's license or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states adhere to certain standards for issuing or renewing driver's licenses and identification card. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star in the upper-right corner, then it is not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you wish to have one. Click here to find out whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of obtaining an Real ID in New York is quite straightforward. The first step is to go to a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You must provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all of the required documents and paid your fees The secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct an identity check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send you a new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be stated on your document.
It is important to remember that if you intend on traveling internationally, you'll require the passport instead of a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more reliable source of identification. You will need an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing a number of online tools that can help applicants to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to assess 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 they make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and will not be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers various options to apply for Real IDs, including online, by phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's licence, permit or non-driver ID card. It will be required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you hold a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right to identify the RealID. please click for source -compliant cards do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used for air travel between these countries.
The applicants will have to go to 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 as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on their situation, but typically they will have one piece of evidence for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Evidence 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 to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The specific documents you will need to bring with you to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. There are a few essential things you shouldn't forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be something like an official driver's license or passport or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring proof of residency that proves you are a resident of New York. This can be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to bring a photo that meets the specifications. The exact requirements for a picture will vary based on the circumstances however, the majority of people have to take a photo with a front view that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have the required documents, you can apply to the DMV for your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person, so you'll need to go to either the DMV or partner office such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will find all the offices and their hours of operation.
When you arrive at the DMV make sure to make a reservation. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will differ depending on whether you are applying for an entirely 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 necessary documents, you'll also need 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 require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name you see on your documents of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's license, you will have to provide evidence issued by a judge or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as receiving a letter telling you it was time to renew. But now, if you would like to fly or enter some federal structures and military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to obtain an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals to alter 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 some federal facilities, including bases for military personnel.
To meet the federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will help you understand what you need to have to bring to the office to complete the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or some other type of certified public record with your name and date of birth, as well as two proofs of New York residency. These can include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes are not acceptable).
Based on your age, you'll also need to have 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 shows you were a member of the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on your airline tickets and help with finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. Check the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or Enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These companies may use your documents to serve fraudulent purposes, so you should not provide them with images.