Buy A Real Driving License: 10 Things I'd Like To Have Known Sooner
Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you're real ID-compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
For those who need an ID with a real name you must visit the DMV office and present several evidence of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a heightened security driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. deutschen führerschein legal kaufen of the act is to create more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star on the upper-right corner, it's not REALID-compliant. You will need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can determine whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process for obtaining a 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 be required to provide evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency with a valid ID picture and two proofs of residency, and the fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees, your identity will be verified and a background check will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved, the Secretary of State will send your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID it will be stated on your ID.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll need an ID card, not a passport. 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 is also the case if you plan to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport to travel.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools that can help applicants to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application as well as determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes they make when trying get 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 will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to obtain a Real ID. This includes online, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's licence, permit or non-driver ID card. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you hold valid passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right corner of your card. Cards that are not certified do not bear the gold star.
If you are unable to meet the requirements for the 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 maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but can't be used for air travel between those destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit the DMV office in person. They should also present a valid photo ID, proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on the situation, but usually include one piece of evidence for each of the categories. For instance evidence of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, and evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you are doing. However there are a few essential things you must remember to bring with you. Bring two pieces of identification documents. This could be an official driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows that you are a resident of New York. This can be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address and address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to provide a photo that is in line with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will vary depending on the situation However, most people will need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary 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 a DMV or partner office like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can find the complete list of offices and their operating hours.
Make a reservation before you go to the DMV. This will prevent you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will differ depending on whether you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing or renewing your license, or changing 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. The DMV must verify your date of birth and name with the Social Security Administration if you are applying for an enhanced ID or Real ID driver's licence. 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 need to bring in court- or government-issued proof documenting the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long will it normally take to receive a Real ID card?
In the past renewal of your license was only a note in the mail advising you that it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or access certain federal structures or military bases, you need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.

The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government says the new rules will make it more difficult 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 board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, like bases for military.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to meet 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 guide you through the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to complete the paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address, or print online documents (documents with P.O. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online proof of identity. Boxes aren't acceptable).
Based on your age, you'll also need to have either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you're a Veteran, you can put a special designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Use the calculator at the DMV 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 could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, therefore you should not send them images.