Why You Should Forget About Enhancing Your Buy A Real Driving License
Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already features a star at the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID-compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you are in need of a REAL ID then you will have to go to the DMV and bring numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and for entry into secure 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 if you want one. You can determine whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process to get a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you have to go to an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity as well as your date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an ID with a valid photo and two proofs of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the fees Your identity will be checked and an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State and you are approved, you will receive a new standard DL/ID via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.
It is crucial to remember that if you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need to have an official passport, not a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally as it is a more reliable method of identification. This is also the case when you wish to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to possess real ID or a valid passport before they can travel.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help applicants get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to review the status of their application and identify the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and identification cards. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers various options for people to obtain an authentic ID, such as online, by phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. It is required for air travel within 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 top right corner to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards are not able to display the gold star.
If you are not able to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on air travel between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit the DMV office in person. They must present an ID with a valid photo and evidence of US citizenship and state residency. The exact documents that are acceptable will vary based on their situation, but usually include the same evidence for each of the categories. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state could be a utility invoice or bank statement, as well as a pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to get a real ID?
The exact documents you have to bring to the DMV will differ based on the circumstances. There are some important things you should never forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two forms of documentation that confirm your identity. You should present a valid passport, driver's licence or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows that you are a resident of New York. This could be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you take a picture that meets the specifications. The exact requirements for a picture will vary depending on the situation however, the majority of people have to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person which means you'll have to go to either a DMV or partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can get the complete list of offices and hours of operation.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you visit the DMV. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will have to pay for the application fee, the photo and the card. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing licence, or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you will also need to provide 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 confirm your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name on your identity proof 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 will need to bring in court- or government-issued proof documenting the events that caused the name change.
How long does it take to obtain an Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as getting the letter in the mail which informed you that it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, now you need an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to apply for an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards with regard to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals who want to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or an Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide that will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you visit the office to complete your application.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub with your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or online documentation. Boxes are not accepted).
You'll need a passport or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to get discounts on flights and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If you're interested in a REAL or an Enhanced photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll need. There are source web page that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. It is not recommended to submit images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used to commit fraud.