Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner then you're REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you require an actual ID you must visit a DMV office and present several evidence of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a heightened 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, and it requires states to meet certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The aim of the act is to create more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to find out if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of obtaining a Real ID in New York is fairly straightforward. The first step is to visit an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and required documents. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an ID with a valid photo as well as two other evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees Your identity will be verified and a background check will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If you have been 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. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable form of identification. You will need a passport or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help applicants get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows applicants to monitor the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes people make when trying to get an 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 that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and not be able to use them for federal purposes, such as taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways to get Real IDs, including online, by phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a driver's license, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies with federal law. It is required for air travel within the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you have a valid passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right corner of your card. Cards that aren't conforming do not have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet all 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 land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but can't be used to travel by air between those destinations.
The applicants will have to go to the DMV in person to obtain a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo that is valid as well as evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary depending on the situation but generally include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility bill or bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The documents you will have to submit to the DMV vary depending on what you are doing. There are a few essential things you shouldn't forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two forms of documentation that prove your identity. This could be something like a valid driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring some form of proof that proves you are a resident of New York. It could be a utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo that is in line with the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will vary depending on the situation, but most people need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply in person, which means you'll need to go to the DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation before you go to the DMV. This will prevent you from long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll have to pay the application fee, the photo and the card. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing license, or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you will be required to provide proof of your social security number. The DMV must verify your birth date and name with the Social Security Administration if you are applying for an Enhanced ID or Real ID driver's licence. If the name on your proof of identity or lawful status Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will be required to submit a court applicationor government-issued proof of the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long does it typically take to get a Real ID card?
Prior to recently renewal of your license was only a note in the mail telling you that it was time to renew. However, now if you are planning to fly or visit certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is moving, but it's not too late to apply for your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations will make it more difficult for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, such as bases for military.
You'll need to submit specific proof of identity to DMV to meet the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide which will help you understand what documents you need when you visit the office to fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or some other type of certified public record with the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. This can be a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online documentation. Boxes are not acceptable.
You'll require a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This can allow you to qualify for discounts on airline tickets and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. If please click the following web site want an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and the documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites since they could be used for fraud purposes.