Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you require a real ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's licence or state identification card that is compliant with the highest security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States, requires that states adhere to certain standards for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and to enter secure government facilities.
If you have a standard 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 will need to upgrade in order to obtain one. Check here to determine whether your ID card is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining the Real ID in New York is quite simple. The first step is to go to a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and the required documents. You will be required to submit evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo and two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have provided all the required documents and paid the fees, the Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct an identity check. 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 noted on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll require a passport rather than a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, since it is a more trustworthy form of identification. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to take commercial flights in the United States.
How do i loved this get a Real ID?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying for a Real ID. One of the tools, a customized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that helps people avoid common mistakes that many make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. If they do not, they are tagged and will not be permitted to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways to apply for a Real ID, including online, by phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess an active passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star in the upper right corner of your card. Cards that are not conforming do not have the gold star.
If you are not able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that's in line with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they can't be used for air travel between those destinations.
To obtain a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to bring an ID photo that is valid as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The exact documents that are acceptable will vary based on their circumstances, but they should usually have the same evidence for each of the categories. For example evidence of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, and proof of state residency could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs that have their name and address on it.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to obtain a real ID?
The documents you will have to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you are doing. There are some important things you shouldn't forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two forms of documentation that confirm your identity. You can present a valid passport, driver's licence, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring proof of residency that proves you are a resident of New York. This can be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must clearly show your current address and address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you bring a photo that meets the standards. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the circumstances. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photo that shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally, so you'll need to visit either a DMV or partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can find a complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you arrive at the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll have to pay the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will be different depending on whether you are applying for the first time a driver's license, renewing your license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.
You will also be required 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 require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name that appears on your identity proofs, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you will have to provide evidence issued by a judge or government documenting what caused the change.
How long does it typically take to receive an Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as simple as getting the mailer which informed you that it was time to renew. However, now if you would like to fly or enter some federal buildings and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or 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 in relation to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government says that the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID, to board domestic flights or to enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identification to DMV to satisfy 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 guideline that will help you understand what you need to have with you when you go to the office to fill out your application.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require a birth certificate or other type of certified public record with your name and date of birth and two documents proving your New York residency. These can include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes cannot be used).
You'll require a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're a veteran, you can add a special designation on your license or ID that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on flight tickets and assist you in finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. Check the DMV's calculator to find out 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 websites are not affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites because they could be used to commit fraud.