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's nothing more you need to do.
If you need a REAL ID then you will need to visit the DMV and bring with you various proofs of identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
A Real ID is an enhanced security driver's license or an state identification card that is compliant with federal 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 and identification card. The goal of the law is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used to travel on air, for police and government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you want one. Click here to find out if your credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process to get the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to go to an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and required documents. You must submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator 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 verified. This is followed by a background check will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of state you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If fuhrerschein kaufen are approved for a REAL ID it will be indicated on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are planning to travel internationally, you will require a passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally as it is a more reliable form of identification. You'll require a passport or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help people navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows people to check on the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when trying get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. Those who do not comply are tagged and will not be able to use their IDs for federal purposes. This is the case for boarding domestic flights as well as entering federal facilities. The DMV provides a variety of options for people to obtain a real ID. These include online or over the 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. It will be required for air travel within the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you have an active passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have the gold star.
If you aren't able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for both sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these countries.
Individuals will need to visit the DMV in person to get a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo with a valid validity as well as evidence of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The required documents will differ depending on the situation but generally will include one document for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, while evidence of residency in the state could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What do I need bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you will have to bring to the DMV vary depending on what you're doing. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of documentation that can prove your identity. You can carry a valid passport or driver's licence or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves you are a resident of New York. This could be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must show your current address (please note that P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo that is in accordance with the requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear picture that 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 need to apply in person which means you'll have to visit either the DMV or partner office, like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV Be sure to make a reservation. This will prevent you from long wait times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You will need to pay a fee for the application, a photo and the card itself. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing license or changing a New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory 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 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 be required to submit a court applicationor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long will it take to obtain an Real ID?
Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as receiving a letter which informed you that it was time to renew. But now, if you want to fly or enter some federal structures and military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license. It's not too late to apply for an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government says the new rules will make it harder for criminals to steal or alter these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV to satisfy federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will walk you through the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to fill out the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another type of certified public record with your name and date of birth and two documents proving your New York residency. These could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documentation (documents with P.O. Boxes are not accepted).
You'll need either passport or an official immigration document based on your age. If you're a veteran you can put a special designation on your ID or license that proves you were in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on your travel tickets as well as help in finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more when it comes to renewing. If you're looking for a REAL or an Enhanced photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to determine the cost and the types of documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites are not associated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.