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If your state ID or driver's license already has an asterisk in the upper-right side, you already have a REAL ID that is compliant. You don't have to do anything else.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, then you'll need to visit the DMV and bring with you various proofs of identity and residency. Learn more about the requirements.
What is a true ID?
A Real ID is an enhanced security driver's license or state identification card that is compliant with federal standards. The Real ID Act, passed in 2005 in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the United States, demands that states adhere to certain standards for issuance or renewal of driver's licenses as well as identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement officers, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If you have an ordinary New York state driver's license or ID card that doesn't have a gold star in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID compliant and you will need to upgrade to obtain one. Check here to determine whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of getting a Real ID is relatively easy in New York. First, you must visit a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You'll need evidence of your identity and date of birth, U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency and an ID with a valid photo as well as two other documents of residency and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Our Facility Finder will help you locate the nearest Secretary of States Driver Services office.
After you have submitted all the necessary documents and have paid the fees The secretary of state will verify your identity and conduct an investigation into your background. If you are approved by the Secretary of State, they will send you a new standard DL or ID to you by mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID the ID will be marked as an official document.
If you plan to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. You will need a passport to travel internationally, as it is a more reliable method of identification. You'll need an ID card or passport to travel on commercial flights in the United States.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying for the Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application as well as determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that will help applicants avoid the common mistakes people make when trying to get an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards with regard to their standard driver's licenses and state identification cards. If they do not conform with the law will be branded as such and not be allowed to use them for federal purposes, which includes the boarding of domestic flights or entering certain federal facilities. The DMV offers a range of options for people to obtain a real ID. They can be obtained online or 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 complies with federal law. It is required to travel on air within the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you possess valid passport. Look for a gold star on the card's upper right to identify a RealID. Non-compliant cards don't have a gold star.
For those who aren't capable of meeting the requirements for an Real ID, they can nevertheless obtain an enhanced driver's license or 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 can't be used to fly between these destinations.
To obtain an 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 state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstances but generally contain one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency can be a utility statement or bank statement, as well as a pay stubs with their name and address.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The specific documents you'll must bring to the DMV will vary depending on the circumstances. However, there are a few important things you must be sure to bring. Bring two pieces of identification proof. This could be something like a valid driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows you live in New York. This can be an utility bill or a bank statement (the document must show your current address - P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Make sure you take a picture that meets the standards. The requirements for a photo will differ based on the situation. However, most people are required to take a clear photo that shows their face.
Once you have the required documents you can apply at the DMV to get your Real ID. You will need to apply in person, which means you'll need to go to the DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can see the complete list of offices and their operating hours.
When you visit the DMV, be sure to reserve a seat. This will prevent you from long wait periods.
The cost of a Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. You will need to pay a fee for the application, a photo and the card itself. The cost will be different depending on whether you are applying for a new driver's license, renewing your license, or changing an old New York State license or ID to a Real ID.
You will also need to show proof of your Social Security number. If you are applying for a 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 on your identity proof, lawful status, and 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 applicationor government-issued proof of the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long does it typically take to receive an Real ID card?
In the past renewal of your license was only a note in the mail telling you it was time to renew. Now, if are planning to fly or visit some federal buildings and bases, you'll require an ID that is REAL or a driver's permit with an enhanced stamp. The clock is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act requires states to comply with certain security standards for their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government says that the new regulations will make it harder for criminals to counterfeit or alter these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID or Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll need to bring specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for a Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website provides an online document guide that will help you to know the documents you'll need when you go to the office to fill out your paperwork.
In addition to your current driver's license or state ID card, you'll need birth certificate or another type of certified public record that includes the name and date of your birth, as well as two documents proving your New York residency. These can include bank statements, 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 a passport or an official immigration document. If you're a veteran, you can include a specific designation on your license or ID that indicates you served in the U.S. Military, which could qualify you for discounts on airline tickets and help with finding housing.
Renewals of Real ID may not require any additional steps if you already have one. Check the DMV's calculator to determine the amount a REAL or enhanced photo document will cost you, and what documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to scan and upload your documents from your home, however these websites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites, as they could be used for fraud purposes.