Buy a Real Driving License
If your state ID or driver's license already has a star in the upper-right corner, you are already REAL ID-compliant. You don't need to do anything else.
If you require an ID with a real name You will need to visit a DMV office and present several documents of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is a security driver's licence or state identification card that meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. wie kann ich meinen führerschein kaufen requires states to adhere to certain standards when renewing or issuing drivers licenses and identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create an additional secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and also to gain access to secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't include a star in the upper-right corner, it's not REALID-compliant. You'll need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. You can determine whether or not your credential is valid by clicking here.
The process to get the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you have to go to an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to submit evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees your identity will be checked and a background check will be conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will mail your new standard DL or ID to you in the mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.
It is crucial to remember that if you plan on traveling internationally, you'll need to have an official passport, not a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, since it is a more secure method of identification. You'll need a passport or REAL ID to take commercial flights in the United States.
How do I get an Real ID?
New York DMV provides a variety of online tools that can assist applicants in completing their application for a Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and decide what documents they need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help applicants avoid the common mistakes that people make when trying get an Real ID.

The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. Those that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and won't be permitted to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering certain federal buildings. The DMV offers various options to get a Real ID, including online, by phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally-compliant 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 a valid passport. Look for a gold star in the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you are unable to meet all the requirements for a Real ID, you can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for sea and land travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they can't be used on flights between these countries.
To obtain an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to present an acceptable photo ID and evidence of US citizenship and state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstances but typically will include one document for each category. For instance the proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, bank statement or pay stub with their name and address on it.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The documents you'll need to bring to the DMV will differ based on what you are doing. However there are a few important things you must keep in mind to bring. First, make sure you bring two forms of documentation that prove your identity. This could be a valid driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring some form of proof that proves you are a resident of New York. This could be the utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address - P.O. This can be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must show your current address --- P.O.
Be sure to take a picture that meets the specifications. The exact requirements for a picture will differ based 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 necessary documents you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You must apply in person, and you'll need to go to a DMV office or one of their partner offices, like DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and their hours on the DMV website.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you go to the DMV. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee, the photo and the card. There are different fees to pay 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.
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 name listed on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must submit evidence issued by a judge or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
In the past, renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter telling you it was time to renew. If you want to fly, or go into certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need an enhanced driver's licence. It's not too late to obtain a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration, will require an actual ID or an Enhanced Photo ID to board domestic flights or enter some federal facilities, like bases for military.
You'll need to submit specific proof of identification 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 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.
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 the name and date of birth, as well as two evidences of New York residency. These could include an utility bill, a bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll require a passport, or an official immigration document, based on your age. If you're an active veteran, it's 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 get discounts on airfare as well as assistance with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps even if you already have one. Check the DMV's calculator to determine the amount a REAL or Enhanced photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll require. There are some websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These companies may utilize your documents for fraud purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.