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're real ID-compliant and there's nothing else you have to do.

If you need a REAL ID, then you'll have to go to 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 a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with the highest security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It requires states to meet certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The act's goal is to create an identification card that is more secure and reliable that can be used for air travel, 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. Click here to find out whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.

The process to get a 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 fill out your application along with the required documents. You will be required to submit 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 the 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. This is followed by a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If navigate to this website are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send you a new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be branded as such on your document.


It is important to remember that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more reliable form of identification. You will need an ID card or passport to travel on commercial flights in the United States.

How do I get an Real ID?

The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants get through the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows people to assess the status of their application and identify the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that helps people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.

The Real ID Act mandates that states comply with federal security standards in relation to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and will not be able to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways for people to obtain a Real ID, including online, by phone, or in person.

A Real ID is a driver's license, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. It is required for air travel within the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you hold valid passport. You can tell if you have the Real ID by looking for a gold-colored star in the upper right-hand corner of your card. Non-compliant cards don't have the gold star.

If you are unable to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that's in line with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these countries.

Individuals will need to visit the DMV in person to obtain an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to carry an ID photo that is valid as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of residency in the state. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on their situation, but typically they will have one document for each category. Evidence 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 with their name and address.

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

The documents you'll have to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you're doing. There are some important things you should never forget to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of documentation that prove your identity. This could be something like an official driver's license or passport, or a birth certificate. Bring a document that shows you live in New York. This can be something like a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. This can be a utility bill, bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O.

Bring a photo in line with the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will vary based on the situation However, most people will need to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.

Once you have all the required documents, you are able to visit the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own, so you'll need to go to either a DMV or partner office, such as DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.

If you are going to the DMV Be sure to make a reservation. This will help you avoid long waiting times.

The cost of the Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You will need to pay a fee for the application, a photo, and the card itself. The cost will vary depending on whether you are applying for an entirely new driver's license, renewing your existing license, or converting an old New York State license or ID to a real ID.

In addition to the mandatory documents, you will be required to provide proof of your social security number. If you're applying for a Real ID driver's license or an enhanced ID, the DMV will require verification of your name and date of birth with the Social Security Administration. If the name on your identity proof legal status, lawful status, or Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you will need to bring in court- or government-issued proof documenting the circumstances that led to the name change.

How long will it normally take to receive an Real ID card?

Until recently renewing your license was as easy as receiving a mailer that told you it was time to renew. However, now if you would like to fly or enter some federal buildings and 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 get your Real ID.

The REAL ID Act mandates that states meet certain security standards in relation to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it more difficult for criminals to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID, or an Enhanced photo ID, to board domestic flights or to enter certain federal facilities, such as military bases.

You'll have to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to meet federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide that will help you understand the documents you'll need when you visit the office to fill out your application.

You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or print online documentation (documents with P.O. These can include a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub indicating your current address, or printed online proof of identity. Boxes are not acceptable).

You'll need either a passport or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID indicating that you served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on flights as well as assistance with housing.

If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do any more when it comes to renewing. If you're looking for an enhanced or real photo ID, you can use the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and the types of documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. You should not submit images of your personal documents to these websites since they could be used to commit fraud.