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 are REAL ID-compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you require a real ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring with you numerous proofs of your identity and residency. Find out legalen führerschein kaufen about the requirements.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a federally compliant driver's license or state identification card that meets higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks. It requires states to meet certain standards 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, which can be used for travel, law enforcement and government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that does not have gold stars in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant, and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. Click here to check if your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining an Real ID is relatively easy in New York. The first step is to visit the Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to submit your application and required documents. You must provide evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence and a valid ID photograph and two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Find your closest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees Your identity will be checked and a background check 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 you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be noted on your ID.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need more than a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, as it is a more trustworthy source of identification. This is also the case when you wish to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require passengers to possess a REAL ID or a valid passport to travel.
How can I get a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing several online tools that can help applicants to navigate the process of applying for a Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows applicants to track 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 requires states to comply with federal security standards for their standard 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 allowed to use them for federal purposes, which includes the boarding of domestic flights or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various ways for people to obtain an authentic ID, such as 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 fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you possess a valid passport. Look for a gold star on the card's top right corner to identify the RealID. Cards that are not compliant do not have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still get an enhanced driver's licence or enhanced photo ID that is in compliance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they cannot be used to travel by air between those destinations.
To obtain an Real ID or an enhanced document, applicants will need to visit the DMV office in person. They should also present an acceptable photo ID and proof of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The exact documentation that is acceptable will depend on their situation, but typically they will have the same evidence for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, and proof of state residency could be an utility bill, bank statement or pay stubs with their name and address on it.
What do I need to bring to the DMV to get a real ID?
The documents you'll have to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you're doing. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This can be something like an official driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. The second thing to do is bring some form of proof that proves your residency in New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must display your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a picture that is in conformity with the guidelines. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on the situation However, most people will need to take a face-to-face photograph that is clear and shows your face.
Once you have the necessary documents, you can apply to the DMV for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, and you'll need to visit a DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. You can find a list of locations and hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation before you arrive at the DMV. This will help you avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York will vary based on your specific situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photo and the card itself. The cost will vary when you apply for the first time a 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'll be required 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 you have 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 be required to submit a court application- or government-issued proof documenting the events that caused the name change.
How long will it normally take to receive a Real ID card?
In the past renewing your license was only a letter in the mail advising you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter some federal structures and bases, you'll require 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 when it comes to their permits, licenses and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules make it harder for criminals trying to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
You'll need to submit specific proof of identity to DMV to meet the 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 what documents you need when you go to the office to fill out your 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 the name and date of your birth and two proofs of New York residency. This can be a bank statement, utility bill, pay stub that shows your current address, or printed online documents. Boxes are not acceptable.
Depending on your age you'll also need to have either the passport or an official immigration document. If you're a veteran you can add a special designation on your ID or license that shows you were a member of the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on your airline tickets and help with finding housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you might not require anything else in regards to renewing. Go to the DMV's calculator to determine how much a REAL or Enhanced photo document will cost, and the documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these sites are not affiliated with the DMV. These websites could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.