Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license already features an asterisk in the upper-right corner, then you are already REAL ID compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you require a real ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring with you numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a real ID?

A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks, and 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 an additional secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not include a star in the upper-right corner, it's not REALID compliant. You'll need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is compliant by clicking here.
führerschein zum kaufen to get an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and the required documents. You'll need evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, a valid photo ID, two different proofs of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Find deutschen führerschein kaufen erfahrungen of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have paid the fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, the Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct a background check. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send your new standard DL or ID to you via 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'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more reliable form of identification. This is also the case if you plan to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess real ID or a valid passport before they can fly.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist those applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to assess the status of their application and identify what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that will help applicants 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 and state identification cards. If they do not conform with the law will be marked as such and not be permitted to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options for people to get a Real ID. These include online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is a federally recognized DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess an active passport. You can tell if you have a Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Cards that are not conforming do not have the gold star.
For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these destinations.
Individuals must go to the DMV in person to obtain a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also be required to carry an ID photo that is valid, evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ depending on the situation but typically include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency can be a utility statement or bank statement, as well as a pay stubs that include their name and address.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to get a real ID?
The specific documents you'll need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. However there are a few essential things you must be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. This can be something like a valid driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove you live in New York. It could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. This could be an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -P.O. P.O.
Bring a photo in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will differ based on the situation however, the majority of people have to take a photo with a front view that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll need to apply in person which means you'll have 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 operating hours.
When you visit the DMV, be sure to reserve a seat. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll have to pay for the application fee as well as the photo card. The cost will vary if you are applying for the first time a driver's license, 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. 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 you have on your proof of identity, lawful status, and Social Security is not the same as the name that appears on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a court- or government-issued proof documenting the events that led to the name change.
How long does it typically take to get a Real ID card?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as getting the mailer that told you it was time to renew. If you're planning to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, you need an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals trying to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies such as 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 military bases.
You'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV in order 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 guide you through the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to fill in the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require a birth certificate or other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. This can be statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or online documentation. Boxes are not accepted).
Based on your age, you'll also require either the passport or an official immigration document. If you're a veteran you can include a specific designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could allow you to get discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding a place to live.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do anything more when it comes to renewing. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator for the cost and the documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents for fraudulent reasons, so do not send them images.