Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
For those who need a REAL ID You will need to visit a DMV office and bring several documents of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a security driver's licence or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, requires that states adhere to certain standards in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses and identification card. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable and can be used for air travel, police, and other government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade to get one. You can determine whether or not your credential is in compliance by clicking here.
The process of getting a Real ID in New York is quite easy. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with the required documents. You'll need 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 $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Finder.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the 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, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you intend on traveling internationally, you'll require an official passport, not a Real ID. Passports are an extremely reliable and durable form of identification, and you will need to bring it with you in order to travel abroad. This will also be the case if you want to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport before they can travel.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help applicants navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that allows applicants to check the status of their application and identify what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their driver's licenses and identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and will not be permitted to use them for federal purposes, including boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options to obtain a Real ID. These include online, 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. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you possess valid passport. You can tell if you have the Real ID by looking for a gold star in the top right corner of your card. Cards that are not certified do not bear the gold star.
If you are 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 valid to travel by either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but can't be used to fly between these destinations.
Individuals must go to the DMV in person to get an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to bring a valid photo ID and proof of US citizenship and state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will vary based on their situation, but usually include the same evidence for each category. For example evidence of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, while evidence of residency in the US could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with their name and address on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an actual ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will vary depending on your situation. However there are a few key things you should always remember to bring with you. First, be sure to bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. You should present a valid passport, driver's licence, or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you are a resident of New York. This can be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Finally, be sure to take a picture that meets the specifications. Click Link for a photograph will vary depending on the specific situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photo that clearly shows their face.
Once you have all the required documents, you are able to go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply in person, and you'll need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can find all the offices and their hours of operation.
Make a reservation prior to when you go to the DMV. This will help you avoid long waiting periods.
The cost of the Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You'll have to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. You'll have to pay different fees for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence, or changing an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you'll also have to show proof of your social security number. If you're 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 see on your identity proofs or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, you must provide evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long will it take to obtain a Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as getting the letter which informed you that it was time to renew. However, now if you would like to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require a REAL ID or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules will make it more difficult for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll need to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will help you understand what you need to have to bring to the office to fill in the paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. This can be a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes cannot be used).
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either a passport or an official immigration document. 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 could qualify you for discounts on airline tickets and help with finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do any more in regards to renewing. If you're looking for a REAL or an Enhanced photo document, check the DMV's online calculator to determine how much it will 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 associated with the DMV. These websites could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, so you should not send them images.