Buy a Real Driving License

If your driver's license or state ID already has a star in the upper right-hand corner then you're real ID-compliant and there is nothing further you need to do.

If you need a REAL ID then you will be required to visit the DMV and bring several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more 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 was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to adhere to 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 law enforcement and government facilities.

If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not include a star in the upper right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You will need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. Check here to determine whether your credential is REAL ID compliant.

deutscher führerschein kaufen for obtaining a Real ID in New York is fairly simple. The first step is to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and the required documents. You must provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency, and a fee of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.

After you have completed your paperwork and paid the fees Your identity will be verified and a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved, the Secretary of State will mail your new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.

If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to take commercial flights in the United States.

How do I get a Real Identification?

The New York DMV is providing several online tools to help applicants to navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, a personalized document check list, allows applicants to monitor the status of their application and determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes they make when applying for a 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. Those that do not comply with the law will be marked as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, which includes boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options to obtain a real ID. These include online, over the phone, or in-person.

A Real ID is a federally recognized 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 active passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right to identify the RealID. Cards that are not certified do not bear the gold star.

For those who aren't in a position to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used on air travel between these countries.

Individuals must visit the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to bring an ID photo that is valid as well as proof of US citizenship, and proof of residency in the state. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but usually include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stubs that include their name and address.

What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?

The documents you will have to submit to the DMV depend on the type of work you are doing. There are a few important things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. This could be an official driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you reside in New York. This can be something like an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).

Finally, be sure to bring a photo that meets the requirements. The requirements for a photo will vary depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear picture that shows their face.

Once you have all the necessary documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You must apply personally which means you'll have to go to either an DMV or a partner office, like DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and hours on the DMV website.

When you arrive at the DMV, be sure to reserve a seat. This will prevent you from long wait times.

The cost of the Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. You'll need to pay the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will differ if you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing your license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.

In addition to the required documents, you'll 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 legal standing, 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 issued by a judge or government documenting what caused the change.

How long does it usually take to get an Real ID card?

Up until recently, renewing your driver's license was as easy as receiving a mailer telling you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or access certain federal buildings or military bases, now you need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. The clock is going by, but it's too late to get your Real ID.

The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it harder for criminals trying to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will require a REAL ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or to enter some federal facilities, like bases for military personnel.

To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guideline that will guide you through the documents you must bring to bring to the office to complete the paperwork.


In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require a birth certificate or other form of certified public record with your name and date of your birth and two documents proving your New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online documentation. Boxes are not acceptable.

Depending on your age you'll also need to have either the passport or an official immigration document. If you are an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This can allow you to qualify for discounts on flights as well as assistance with housing.

If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything more in terms of renewing. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo document, check the DMV's online calculator for the cost and what documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these companies because they could be used for fraudulent purposes.