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 are real ID-compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you need a REAL ID then you will have to go to the DMV and bring with you numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a real ID?
Real ID is a security driver's license or an state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States of America, requires that states adhere to certain standards for issuing or renewing driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The goal of the law is to create an identification card that is more reliable and secure that can be used for 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 credential is REAL ID compliant.
The process of getting a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to complete your application and required documents. You must provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence, a valid ID photo and two proofs of residency and the fee of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will assist you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have provided all the necessary documents and have paid the fees After you have submitted all of the required documents, the secretary of state will confirm 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 standard DL/ID via mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be branded as the same on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you are planning on traveling internationally, you will need to have a passport instead of a Real ID. A passport is an extremely reliable and durable form of identification, and you'll require it with you to travel to other countries. This is also the case if you plan to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to have real ID or a valid passport before they can travel.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid people in the application process to obtain a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and determine the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid common mistakes that many make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be marked as such and won't be allowed to use them for federal purposes, including boarding domestic flights or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV provides a variety of options for individuals to get a Real ID. They can be obtained online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. It will be required for air travel within the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you hold an active passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right corner to identify a RealID. Cards that are not conforming do not have the gold star.
If you're not capable of meeting the requirements for a Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license, or an enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used on flights between these destinations.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will have to visit an DMV office in person. They will also need to bring an ID photo with a valid validity, evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstance, but typically will include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of residency in the state can be a utility statement or bank statement, as well as a pay stubs that include their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to DMV in order to get an ID that is genuine?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will vary depending on your particular situation. However there are a few key things you should always keep in mind to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of documentation that prove your identity. You can bring a valid passport, driver's license, or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring some form of proof that proves your residence in New York. This could be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must show your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to provide a photo that is in line with the standards. The exact requirements for a photo will vary depending on the circumstances, but most people need to take a photo with a front view that is clear and shows your face.

Once you have the required documents you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You must apply in person, which means you'll need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you can get the complete list of offices and their hours of operation.
If you are going to the DMV Be sure to book a reservation. This will save you from long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photograph and the card itself. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's licence or renewing an existing licence or converting the New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the mandatory documents, you will also need 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 you see on your proofs of identity, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the one listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must provide evidence from a court or government documenting the reason for the change.
How long does it usually take to receive a Real ID card?
Up until recently renewing your license was only a note in the mail advising you that it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you need a REALID or enhanced driver's license. It's not too late for you to apply for a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to meet certain security standards for their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government says the new regulations will make it more difficult for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID or Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
You'll need to provide specific proof of identity to DMV to satisfy the federal requirements when applying for an enhanced photo-document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will help you to know what documents you require when you visit the office to fill out your paperwork.
In kann man einen führerschein kaufen to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need birth certificate or some other document that is certified by the public that includes the name and date of birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These can include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes cannot be used).
You'll require passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a designation to your license or ID showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This can allow you to receive discounts on airline tickets and assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps in the event that you already have a valid. If you're interested in an enhanced or real photo document, check the DMV's online calculator to see the cost and the types of documents you'll require. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from home. However, these websites are not affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites, as they could be used for fraudulent purposes.