Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID has an "A" in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID compliant and there's nothing else you need to do.
If you are in need of an ID with a real name you must visit a DMV office and bring evidence of identity and residency. Find out more information 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 higher security standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 following the September 11 attacks. It obliges states to comply with certain requirements when issuing or renewing 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 personnel, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not have a star in the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll need to upgrade your credential if you would like one. Check here to determine if your credential is REAL ID-compliant.
The process for obtaining the Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you must visit an Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will need to provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, a valid photo ID as well as two other evidence of residence and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the closest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After my website have submitted your documents and paid your fees, your identity will be verified and a background check conducted by the secretary of state. If you are approved by the Secretary of State and you are approved, you will receive a new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you have been approved for a REAL ID it will be noted on your document.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll need a passport rather than a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally as it is a more reliable source of identification. You'll require an ID card (passport) or REAL ID to board commercial flights in the United States.
How can I obtain a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying to obtain the Real ID. One of the tools is a customized document checklist that enables applicants to assess the status of their application and determine what documents they will need to bring to their local DMV office. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licences and state identification cards. If they do not, they will be tagged and not be permitted to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. The DMV offers various options for people to obtain Real IDs, including via the internet, over the phone, or in person.
A Real ID is any driver's licence, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that is compliant with federal law. In May 2025, it will be required to fly within the United States, and enter certain federal buildings without a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right corner to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have the gold star.
If you're not able to meet the requirements for a Real ID, they can still obtain an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are able to be used to travel by either by sea or land into Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but they cannot be used to fly between these destinations.
To get a Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit a DMV office in person. They will also need to bring an acceptable photo ID, proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The exact documents that are acceptable will depend on their situation, but usually include one piece of evidence for each category. For example, proof of US citizenship could be naturalization or birth certificate, and evidence of residency in the US could be an utility bill, bank statement, or pay stubs that have their address and name on it.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The exact documents you must bring to the DMV will differ based on your particular situation. There are a few essential items you must not forget to bring. First, you must bring two forms of documentation that can prove your identity. You should present a valid passport, driver's license or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove you live in New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must display your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Finally, be sure to bring a photo that meets the standards. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the circumstances. However, most people are required to take a clear photograph that shows their face.
Once you have the required documents, you can apply at the DMV for your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, and you'll need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices like DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and hours on the DMV website.
Make a reservation prior to when you arrive at the DMV. This will allow you to avoid long wait times.
The cost of a Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You will need to pay for the application, a photograph, and the card itself. You will pay different fees when applying for a driver's license or renewing an existing licence or converting a New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you will also need to provide proof of your social security number. If you are applying for an 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 you see on your proofs of identity legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name listed on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you will have to provide evidence from a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does it take to obtain a Real ID?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a letter which informed you that 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. It's not too late for you to get an ID that is REAL.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it harder for criminals who want 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, including military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll need to bring specific proofs of your identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will guide you through the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to complete your application.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll require birth certificate or another form of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth and two documents proving your New York residency. This could include statements from banks, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or online documents. Boxes are not acceptable.
Depending on your age, you'll also require either an official passport or a passport immigration document. If you're a Veteran, you can include a specific designation on your license or ID that shows you were a member of the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on travel tickets as well as help in finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. If you're interested in an enhanced or REAL photo-based document, look up the DMV's online calculator to see how much it will cost and the types of documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. These companies could utilize your documents for fraud purposes, so you should not send them images.