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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 have to do.
For those who need an actual ID You will need to visit an DMV office and bring several documents of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a Real ID?
Real ID is an enhanced security driver's licence or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an additional secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't include a star in the upper-right corner, it's not REALID-compliant. You'll have to upgrade your credential if you would like one. Click here to find out if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of getting the Real ID in New York is relatively easy. The first step is to go to an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You will be required to provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence and a valid ID photograph and two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid the fees The Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be branded as such on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. A passport is an extremely reliable and durable method of identification, and you will have to carry it with you to travel to other countries. This will also be the case if you want to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers have an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport before they can travel.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help applicants to navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that enables applicants to review the status of their application and decide what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of ways to get a Real ID, 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 is in compliance with federal law. It is required for air travel within the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you have valid passport. Look for a gold star in the card's top right corner to identify a RealID. Cards that are not certified do not bear the gold star.
If you are unable to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used for air travel between these destinations.
The applicants will have to visit the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They must bring a valid photo ID, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but generally will include one document for each category. For example evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be a utility bill, bank statement or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to obtain an ID that is genuine?
The documents you will have to submit to the DMV will differ based on what you're doing. There are a few important items you must not forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of proof that prove your identity. This can be something like an official driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring proof of residency that proves your residence in New York. fuhrerschein-kaufen-ohne-vorkasse Fuehrerscheinn could be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address and address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo that is in line with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photo which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply to the DMV for your Real ID. You must apply personally which means you'll have to visit either an DMV or partner office such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.

You should make a reservation prior to the time you go to the DMV. This will help you avoid long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. The cost will vary when you apply 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 will also have to show 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 that appears on your documents of identity 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 submit evidence from a court or government documenting what caused the change.
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter telling you it was time to renew. However, now if you want to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government says 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 an actual ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter some federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to submit specific proof of identity to DMV in order to satisfy the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will help you understand what documents you require when you visit the office to complete your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or another type of certified public record with the name and date of birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes cannot be used).
Depending on your age, you'll also need to have either the passport or an official immigration document. If you are an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your ID or license indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to receive discounts on airfare as well as assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you want an enhanced or REAL 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 websites are not affiliated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents to serve fraudulent reasons, so do not provide them with images.