Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's licence already has a star in the upper-right side, you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you need a REAL ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring 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 meets the highest security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states meet certain standards for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses and identification card. The aim of the act is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure, which can be used for air travel, police, and other government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't include a star in the upper-right corner, it's not REALID compliant. You'll need to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can determine whether or not your ID card is in compliance by clicking here.
The process of getting a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need to submit evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency as well as an acceptable photo ID and two documents of residency and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all the necessary documents and have paid the fees The Secretary of State will verify your identity and conduct an investigation into your background. If you are approved by the Secretary of state and you are approved, you will receive a new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID and it is approved, it will be branded as the same on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need to have an official passport, not a Real ID. Passports are an extremely reliable and durable type of identification, and you'll have to carry it with you to travel internationally. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools to help applicants to navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows applicants to track the status of their application and determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when trying get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those who do not comply will be tagged and not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various options to apply for a Real ID, including via the internet, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is a federally recognized DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. In May 2025 it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have an active passport. You can recognize a Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. Non-compliant cards are not able to display a 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 is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid to travel on either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but are not valid for air travel between those destinations.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They will also be required to bring an ID photo that is valid as well as proof of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. look at here now required documents will differ according to the circumstances but typically contain one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency could be a utility bill or bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, you must bring two pieces of proof that prove your identity. This could be a valid driver's licence or passport or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves you live in New York. It could be an utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must have your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Finally, be sure to bring a photo that meets the specifications. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on the circumstances however, the majority of people have to take a photo with a front view that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the required documents, you are able to go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally which means you'll have to visit either a DMV or a partner office, like DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can find all the offices and hours of operation.
Make a reservation prior to when you go to the DMV. This will save you from long wait times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You will have to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will differ 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 need 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 require verification of 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 licence, you will have to provide evidence issued by a judge or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long will it take to get an Real ID?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as receiving a mailer which informed you that it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require 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 claims that the new rules make it harder for criminals who want to modify or counterfeit 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, including military bases.
To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to bring specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will guide you through what you need to have to bring to the office to fill in your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or another form of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth and two documents proving your New York residency. This can be statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes cannot be used).
Based on your age, you'll also require either a passport or an official immigration document. If you are an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on flights and assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do any more in regards to renewing. If you want a REAL or an Enhanced photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and what documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies, as they could be used for fraud purposes.