Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already features a star at the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't need to do anything else.
If you are in need of a REAL ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring along numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a Real 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, demands that states adhere to certain standards in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create an additional secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade in order to obtain one. You can check whether or not your ID card is valid by clicking here.
The process for obtaining the Real ID in New York is relatively easy. First, you must visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need to submit proof of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, an acceptable photo ID and two documents of residency, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees your identity will be checked and an investigation of your background will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved, the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be marked as such on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you intend to travel internationally, you'll need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are more secure and reliable form of identification, and you'll have to carry it with you to travel abroad. You will need an ID card or passport to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How do I obtain an Real ID?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying for the Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows applicants to check the status of their application and determine the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes they make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their driver's licenses as well as state identification cards. If they do not, they will be tagged and not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal facilities. The DMV offers various options to apply for Real IDs, including online, by phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you have a valid passport. You can tell if you have the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Cards that aren't certified do not bear the gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these destinations.
To obtain an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit a DMV office in person. They will also be required to carry a valid ID photo as well as proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but typically contain one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state can be a utility statement, bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an actual ID?
The specific documents you will must bring to the DMV will vary depending on your particular situation. There are a few important things you should never forget to bring. First, you must bring two forms of documentation that can prove your identity. This could be a valid driver's licence, passport, or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring some form of proof that proves your residency in New York. This could be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo in line with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will differ based on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear photo which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply to the DMV to get your Real ID. You must apply in person, which means you'll need to go to an DMV office or one of their partner offices, such as DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to reserve a seat. This will help you avoid long waiting periods.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll need to pay for the application, a photo and the card itself. The cost will differ if you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing or renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
In addition to the necessary 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 that appears on your documents of identity or lawful standing and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must provide evidence from a court or government documenting what caused the change.
How long will it take to obtain a Real ID?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as getting the mailer that told you it was time to renew. But now, if you would like to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to get an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules will make it harder for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID, or an Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights or to enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV to meet 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 guide that will walk you through what you need to have with you when you go to the office to fill out the paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another form of certified public record that includes the name and date of your birth and two documents proving your New York residency. This could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes are not acceptable).
Based on your age, you'll also require either a passport or an official immigration document. If you're a Veteran, you can include a specific designation on your ID or license that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which can allow you to receive discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you aren't required to do anything else in regards to renewing. Check such a good point to determine the amount a REAL or enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites are not associated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents to serve fraudulent purposes, so you should not send them images.