Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's licence already has an asterisk in the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you are in need of an actual ID you must visit the DMV office and bring several evidence of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
A 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 requires states to adhere to certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for travel, police and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade in order to obtain one. Check here to determine if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process to get a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You must provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency and a fee of $28 (see Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all of the necessary documents and have paid your fees The secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be branded as the same on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you intend on traveling internationally, you'll require the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are an extremely reliable and durable method of identification, and you'll need to bring it with you to travel abroad. This is also the case when you wish to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I get an Real ID?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist those applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that allows applicants to check the status of their application and identify what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid common mistakes that many make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their driver's licenses as well as state identification cards. Those who do not comply will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities. The DMV offers various options to get a Real ID, including online, by phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally recognized DMV-issued driver's license, 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 have an active passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Cards that are not certified do not bear the gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that's in line 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 for air travel between these destinations.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They must present an acceptable photo ID as well as proof of US citizenship and state residency. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on the circumstances, but they should usually have one document for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, a bank statement or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain a real ID?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will vary depending on the circumstances. However there are a few essential things you must be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You are able to carry a valid passport or driver's licence, or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring some form of proof that proves your residence in New York. This could 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).
Bring a photo that is in accordance with the requirements. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the specific situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear picture which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally and you'll need to go to either the DMV or partner office, like 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 arrive at the DMV. This will help you avoid long waiting periods.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay for the application, a photo, and the card itself. The cost will be different depending on whether you are applying for the first time a driver's license, renewing or renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
You will also be required to provide proof of your Social Security number. If you're applying for an 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 that appears on your proofs of identity, 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 proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to get an Real ID?
Prior to recently, renewing your license required only a note in the mail advising you that it was time to renew. But now, if you are planning to fly or visit some federal structures and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to obtain an ID that is REAL.
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 make it more difficult for criminals to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies, including 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 personnel.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll need to bring specific proofs of your 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 walk you through what you need to have with you when you go to the office to fill in your paperwork.

In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require a birth certificate or other document that is certified by the public with the name and date of birth and two proofs of New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online proof of identity. echten führerschein kaufen erfahrungen are not accepted).
Depending on your age you'll also require either a passport or an official immigration document. If you're a veteran, you can put a special 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 flight tickets and assist you in finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Use the calculator at the DMV to determine how much a REAL or Enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. These companies could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, therefore you should not send them images.