Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's licence already has an asterisk in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. There is no need to do anything else.
If you require an ID with a real name you must visit an DMV office and present several evidence of 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 license or state identification card that is compliant with higher security standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states meet certain standards in the process of granting or renewing driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The aim of the act is to create more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you'll have to upgrade to get one. You can check whether or not your ID card is valid by clicking here.
The process to get an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you need to visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency and a valid ID photograph and two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted your documents and paid the fees Your identity will be checked and a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved and the Secretary of State will send you a new standard DL or ID to you via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID and it is approved, it will be marked as the same on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are planning to travel internationally, you will need to have the passport instead of a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more trustworthy form of identification. This will also be the case when you wish to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers have a REAL ID or a valid passport in order to travel.
How do I get an Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help applicants navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to check the status of their application and decide what documents they 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 a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licences and state identification card. Those who do not comply will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV provides 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 driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is in compliance with federal law. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without an active passport. You can tell if you have the Real ID by looking for a gold star in the top right corner of your card. Non-compliant cards don't have a gold star.
For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they 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 land or sea into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
Individuals will need to visit the DMV in person to acquire an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo with a valid validity as well as proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The exact documents that are acceptable will vary based on their circumstances, but they should usually have one piece of evidence for each of the categories. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state can be a utility statement or bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an actual ID?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will differ based on your particular situation. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. First, be next page to bring two forms of documentation that prove your identity. You are able to carry a valid passport or driver's licence, or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you are a resident of New York. This could be something like an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a picture that is in accordance with the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will differ based on the situation, but most people need 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 have to apply in person, which means you'll need to visit 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 make sure to reserve a seat. This will save you from long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. You'll have to pay different fees if you're applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing license, or converting the New York State ID or license to a real ID.
You will also have 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 identity proof or lawful status Social Security is not the same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will need to bring in courtor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long will it take to get an Real ID?
In the past renewal of your license was only a letter in the mail advising you it was time to renew. But now, if you want to fly or enter 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 comply with certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals trying to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or an enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website offers an online document guide which will assist you in understanding what documents you need when you visit the office to fill out your paperwork.
You can make use of a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or print online documents (documents with P.O. This could include an utility bill, a bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes cannot be used).
You'll require passport or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're an ex-military veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your ID or license which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This could allow you to qualify for discounts on airline tickets and help with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more in regards to renewing. If you want an enhanced or real photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the documents you'll need. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites because they could be used to commit fraud.