Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner, then you are REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing else you have to do.
If you require a REAL ID you must visit an DMV office and present several proofs of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a genuine ID?
A Real ID is a heightened security driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain requirements when issuing or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable and can be used to travel on air, for police, and other government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star on the upper-right corner, it's not REALID compliant. You'll need to upgrade if you wish to have one. You can check whether or not your ID card is valid by clicking here.
The process for obtaining the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and required documents. You must submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted all the required documents and paid the fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, 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 DL/ID standard in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be noted as such on your document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, as it is a more secure source of identification. You'll need a passport or REAL ID to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How do I obtain a Real ID?
The New York DMV is providing various online tools that can help applicants to navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows applicants to check on the status of their application as well as determine which documents they should bring to their local DMV. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification card. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal use. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of ways to get Real IDs, including online, by phone or in person.
A Real ID is any 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 unless you possess an active passport. You can identify the Real ID by looking for a gold star on the upper right corner of your card. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you are unable to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still get an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents can be used to travel on maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries but cannot be used to fly between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit an DMV office in person. They will also need to present a valid photo ID as well as proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary depending on the situation but typically will include 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 or bank statement, or pay stub that includes their name and address.
What do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The documents you will need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you're doing. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. You should carry a valid passport or driver's license or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows that you are a resident of New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. This can be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address --- P.O.
Make sure you provide a photo that is in line with the standards. The exact requirements for a photo will differ based on your situation, but most people need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have the required documents, you can apply to the DMV to get your Real ID. echten führerschein kaufen 'll need to apply in person which means you'll have to visit either the DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and their hours on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV make sure to book a reservation. This will save you from long wait periods.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will have to pay the application fee, the photo and the card. You'll have to pay different fees when applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or changing an existing 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 proof of identity, lawful status, and Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will have to present a court- or government-issued proof documenting the events that led to the name change.
How long does it usually take to get an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter in the mail that told you it was time to renew. But now, if you want to fly or enter some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's license with an enhanced version. It's not too late for you to get a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government says the new rules will make it more difficult 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, to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV 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 help you understand what you need to have with you when you go to the office to fill out your application.

In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need birth certificate or some other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth and two evidences of New York residency. This can be bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or online proof of identity. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll need either passport or an official immigration document, based on your age. 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 could qualify you for discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding a place to live.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. Use the calculator at the DMV to determine the amount a REAL or Enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not associated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents for fraudulent reasons, so do not send them images.