Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has an asterisk in the upper right-hand corner then you are REAL ID-compliant and there is nothing further you have to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, then you'll be required to visit the DMV and bring along several proofs of your identity and residency. Find out more about the requirements.
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a heightened 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, requires that states meet certain standards in the process of granting or renewing drivers' licenses and identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create a more secure and reliable method of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement personnel, and to enter secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card does not include a star in the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID compliant. You'll have to upgrade your credential if you would like one. Click here to check whether your ID card is REAL ID-compliant.
The process of getting the Real ID in New York is relatively easy. First, you need to visit the Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. You will be required to provide proof of identity, date-of-birth, U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence with a valid ID picture, two proofs of residency, and a fee of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location using our Facility Locator.
After you have submitted your documents and paid your fees your identity will be verified. This is followed by 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 in the mail. If you have been approved for an REAL ID it will be stated on your document.
If you're planning to travel internationally, you'll need an ID card, not a passport. Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally, since it is a more secure form of identification. This will also be the case if you plan to fly commercially within the United States, as airlines will require all passengers to have real ID or a valid passport in order to fly.
How do I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist those applying for an Real ID. One of these tools is a personalized document checklist that enables applicants to check the status of their application and decide the documents they must bring to their local DMV office. Another tool is an Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for an Real ID.
The Real ID Act mandates that states meet federal security standards when it comes to their standard driver's licences and state identification card. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of options for individuals to obtain a Real ID. This includes online or over the phone or in person.
A Real ID is a federally recognized DMV-issued driver's license or permit or non-driver ID card. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal buildings starting in May 2025, unless you possess an active passport. Look for a gold-colored 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 are unable to meet 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 land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. However, they are not able to be used for air travel between these destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to acquire a Real ID, or enhanced document. They must present an acceptable photo ID and proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The required documents will differ according to the circumstances but usually will include one document for each category. Proof of US citizenship could be a birth or naturalization certificate. Proof of state residency could be a utility invoice, bank statement, or pay stubs with their name and address.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The specific documents you will have to bring to the DMV will vary depending on the circumstances. However there are some essential things you must keep in mind to bring. First, make sure you bring two pieces of documentation that confirm your identity. You should bring a valid passport, driver's licence or birth certificate. Bring a document that shows you live in New York. This can be the 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).
Make sure you provide a photo that is in line with the requirements. The requirements for a photograph will vary depending on the situation. However, the majority of people are required to take a clear photograph which shows their face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You have to apply in person, and you'll need to visit an DMV office or one of their partner offices such as DMV Express. You can find a list of DMV locations and their hours on the DMV website.
When you visit the DMV, be sure to book a reservation. This will allow you to avoid long waiting times.
The cost of an Real ID in New York is contingent upon your particular situation. It is necessary to pay for the application, a photo and the card itself. You will pay different fees when applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
You will also have 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 see on your proofs of identity legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's license, then you must submit proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long does wie kann ich meinen führerschein kaufen take to get an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as getting the letter in the mail that told you it was time to renew. Now, if want to fly or enter certain federal buildings or military bases, you'll need a REAL ID or an enhanced driver's license. The clock is going by, but it's too late to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards when it comes to their licenses, permits, and identification cards. The government claims that the new rules will make it more difficult for criminals to create counterfeit or altered versions of these documents. Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will require a REAL ID, or an Enhanced photo ID, to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.

To be able to meet federal requirements, you'll have to provide specific proof of your identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or an Enhanced document. The Department of Motor Vehicles website has an online document guide that will help you understand the information you need to bring with you when you go to the office to complete your paperwork.
You can utilize a utility bill bank statement, pay stub with your current address or print online documents (documents with P.O. These could include a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documents (documents that have P.O. Boxes aren't acceptable).
You'll need either a passport or an official immigration document depending on your age. If you are an ex-military 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 in the event that you already have a valid. If you're looking for an enhanced or real photo document, check the DMV's online calculator to see how much it will cost and the documents you'll require. There are websites that claim to pre-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.