Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID compliant and there is nothing further you have to do.
If you require a REAL ID you must visit an DMV office and bring proofs of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements here.
What is a true ID?

A Real ID is a security driver's license or state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states meet certain standards for issuance or renewal of drivers' licenses and identification cards. The goal of the act is to create a more secure and reliable type of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and to enter secure government facilities.
If you have a standard New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have gold stars in the upper right corner, it's not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. Check here to determine if your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of getting the Real ID in New York is fairly simple. First, you must visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You must submit evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency and a valid ID photograph, two proofs of residency, and an amount of $28 (see Fee Chart). Our Facility Locator will help you find the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid your fees Your identity will be verified. This is followed by an investigation of your background 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 are approved for a REAL ID and it is approved, it will be noted as such on your document.
It is essential to keep in mind that if you intend on traveling internationally, you will need to have an official passport, not a Real ID. You'll need a passport to travel internationally as it is a more reliable method of identification. This will also be the case when you wish to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers have an ID with a REAL name or a valid passport to fly.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
The New York DMV is providing a number of online tools to help people navigate the process of applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is an individualized document checklist that allows applicants to assess the status of their application and decide the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is a Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when trying to get a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states adhere to federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. States that do not comply with the law will be labeled as such and won't be allowed to use them for federal purposes, which includes taking domestic flights, or entering federal buildings. The DMV offers a variety of options to obtain 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. In May 2025 it will be required to travel within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings unless you have an active passport. Look for führerschein kaufen on the card's top right corner to identify the RealID. Cards that aren't certified do not bear the gold star.
If you are not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still 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 certain Caribbean countries. However, führerschein kaufen ohne prüfung are not able to be used on air travel between these countries.
Individuals will need to visit the DMV in person to obtain an Real ID, or enhanced document. They must bring an ID with a valid photo as well as evidence of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary depending on the situation but generally include one document for each category. Evidence of US citizenship could be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate. Evidence of residency in the state can be a utility statement or bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need to bring to DMV in order to obtain an actual ID?
The documents you'll have to bring to the DMV depend on the type of work you are doing. However there are some important things you must be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. You can carry a valid passport or driver's licence or birth certificate. Bring a document that proves that you reside in New York. This can be a utility bill or bank statement (the document must indicate your current address (please note that P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Bring a photo that is in conformity with the guidelines. The requirements for a photograph will differ depending on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that clearly shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own and you'll need to go to either the DMV or a partner office, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website, you will find a complete list of offices and their operating hours.
You should make a reservation prior to the time you visit the DMV. This will save you from long waiting periods.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York depends on your situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. The cost will differ if you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing or 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 also have to show 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 same as the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a courtor a government-issued document that explains the events that led to the name change.
How long does it take to get a Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as easy as receiving a letter telling you it was time to renew. Now, if are planning to fly or visit certain federal buildings or bases, you'll require a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is ticking, but it's not too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to 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 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.
You'll have to provide specific proofs of identification to DMV in order to satisfy the federal requirements when you apply for an enhanced photo document or a Real photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will guide you through what you need to have to bring to the office to fill out the paperwork.
In addition to your existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another form of certified public record with the name and date of your birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These can include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stubs with your current address or printed online documentation (documents that have P.O. Boxes are not acceptable).
Depending on your age, you'll also need to have either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you are a veteran, it is possible to add a special designation to your license or ID which indicates that you were a member of the U.S. Military. This could enable you to get discounts on airline tickets and help with housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Use the calculator at the DMV to determine the amount an enhanced or REAL photo ID will cost, and what documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to pre-scan and upload your documents from home, but these websites aren't affiliated with the DMV. These websites could use your documents to serve fraudulent purposes, therefore you should not provide them with images.