Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID-compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.
If you are in need of an actual ID You will need to visit the DMV office and present several proofs of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federally-compliant driver's licence or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks, and it obliges states to comply with certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers licenses and identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create an additional secure and reliable form 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 is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll need to upgrade to get one. Click here to check if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process for obtaining 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 will need to provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an acceptable photo ID, two different evidence of residence, and a $28 fee (see the Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees your identity will be verified. This is followed by a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send you a new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If wie kann ich meinen führerschein kaufen are approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your document.
It is important to remember that if you intend on traveling internationally, you'll require the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable source of identification. This is also the case if you want to travel on commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess real ID or a valid passport in order to travel.
How do I get a Real ID?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist those applying to obtain a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that allows applicants to check the status of their application and determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid common mistakes that many make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be branded as such and not be permitted to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options for people to obtain a real ID. They can be obtained online, over the phone, or in-person.
A Real ID is a federally compliant 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 without an authentic passport. You can recognize the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of your card. Non-compliant cards do not have the gold star.
If you are unable to meet the requirements for the Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to present an acceptable photo ID, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact document that is acceptable will depend on their situation, but usually include one document for each category. The proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency can be a utility statement, bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.
What do I have to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will differ based on your situation. However there are a few important things you must keep in mind to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of proof that confirm your identity. This could be something like a valid driver's licence or passport or birth certificate. Second, be sure to bring a piece of documentation that proves your residence in New York. It could be an 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 picture that is in conformity with the guidelines. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear photo that clearly shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own and you'll need to visit either an DMV or a partner office, like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can get the complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
When you visit the DMV make sure to reserve a seat. This will help you avoid long waiting periods.
The cost of an Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. It is necessary to pay a fee for the application, a photo and the card itself. There are different fees to pay if you're applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing licence or changing an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the required documents, you'll also need to provide proof of your social security number. The DMV must verify your date of birth 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 will be required to submit a court applicationor government-issued proof of the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long will it take to obtain an Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter which informed you that it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or access certain federal buildings or military bases, then you'll need an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to apply for an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards in relation 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 a REAL ID or an enhanced Photo ID to take domestic flights, or enter some federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will assist you in understanding what documents you require when you visit the office to fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need 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 can be a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online proof of identity. Boxes can't be used).
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you are an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a special designation to your license or ID indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to qualify for discounts on airline tickets and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Go to the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or Enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you 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 companies, as they could be used to commit fraud.