Buy a Real Driving License
If your driver's license or state ID already has a star in the upper right-hand corner, then you're REAL ID compliant and there's nothing more you need to do.
If you require a real ID then you will be required to visit the DMV and bring with you various proofs of identity and residency. Find out more information about the requirements.
What is a real ID?
kann man einen führerschein kaufen is a heightened security driver's license or an state identification card which meets federal standards. The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 after the September 11 attacks, and it requires states to adhere to certain standards when issuing or renewing drivers licenses and identification cards. The purpose of the law is to create a more secure and reliable form of identification that can be used by air travelers, law enforcement, and for entry into secure government facilities.
If your standard New York State driver's licence or ID card doesn't have a star on the upper-right corner, then it's not REALID-compliant. You'll have to upgrade if you want one. Click here to find out whether your ID card is REAL ID compliant.
The process of obtaining an Real ID in New York is fairly simple. The first step is to go to an Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person to fill out your application along with required documents. You will be required to provide evidence of identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency with a valid ID picture and two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). Find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Finder.
After you have completed your paperwork and paid the 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 you will receive your new standard DL/ID in the mail. If you are approved for an REAL ID it will be indicated on your ID.
If you are planning to travel internationally, you'll require more than a Real ID. Passports are a more reliable and robust type of identification, and you will require it with you in order to travel abroad. You'll need a passport or REAL ID to take commercial flights in the United States.
How do I obtain an Real ID?
New York DMV provides a number online tools to assist people in the application process for the Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to monitor the status of their application as well as determine what documents they need to bring to their local DMV. Another tool is a Youtube video that can help people avoid the common mistakes people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their driver's licenses and identification cards. Anyone who does not meet the standards are tagged and will not be able to use their IDs for federal use. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. The DMV offers a variety of ways to apply for a Real ID, including via the internet, over the phone, or in person.

A Real ID is a driver's license, permit, or non-driver identification card issued by the DMV that complies with federal law. It is required for travel in the United States and to enter certain federal structures beginning in May 2025, unless you have a valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's upper right corner to identify the RealID. Non-compliant cards do not have a gold star.
If you're not in a position to meet the requirements for an Real ID, they can get an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced photo ID that conforms with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and certain Caribbean countries. However, they cannot be used on flights between these destinations.
To get an Real ID or an enhanced document, individuals will need to visit an DMV office in person. They will also need to present a valid photo ID, evidence of US citizenship, and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstance, but typically contain one document for each category. For instance, proof of US citizenship can be a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, while proof of state residency could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub with their address and name on it.
What do I need bring to the DMV to get a Real ID?
The specific documents you'll need to bring with you to the DMV will differ depending on the circumstances. There are a few essential things you should never forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documentation. This could be something like a valid driver's license, passport, or birth certificate. Also, make sure you bring a piece of documentation that proves your residency in New York. It could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or a pay stub (the document must have your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to take a picture that meets the requirements. The exact requirements for a picture will vary based on the situation however, the majority of people have to take a front-facing photograph that is clear and clearly shows your face.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can go to the DMV to apply for your Real ID. You'll have to apply on your own, so you'll need to visit either an DMV or partner office like DMV Express. You can find a list with locations and hours of operation on the DMV website.
If you are going to the DMV Be sure to book a reservation. This will help you avoid long waiting times.
The cost of the Real ID in New York varies depending on your situation. You'll need to pay a fee for the application, a photo, and the card itself. You will pay different fees for applying for a driver's license, renewing an existing license, or converting an existing New York State ID or license to a Real ID.
In addition to the necessary documents, you'll also have to show proof of your social security number. The DMV must verify your birth date 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, lawful status, and Social Security is not the identical to the name on your New York State driver's license or ID, you'll have to present a courtor government-issued proof of the circumstances that led to the name change.
How long will it normally take to get a Real ID card?
In the past, renewing your license required only a letter in the mail telling you it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or go into certain federal structures or military bases, then you require an enhanced driver's licence. 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 with regard to their licenses, permits and identification cards. The government claims that the new regulations make it more difficult for criminals who want to alter or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID, or an Enhanced photo ID for passengers to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, including military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll need to provide specific proof of your identity to DMV when you apply for an Real or Enhanced photo document. The Department of Motor Vehicles' website has an online document guide that will help you understand the documents you'll need when you go to the office to fill out your application.
You can use a utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address or print online documents (documents with P.O. This could include bank statements, a utility bill, pay stub showing your current address, or online documentation. Boxes cannot be used).
You'll need a passport, or an official immigration document based on your age. If you are an active veteran, it's possible to add a designation to your ID or license showing that you have served in the U.S. Military. This could allow you to get discounts on airline tickets as well as assistance with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you aren't required to do anything more in terms of renewing. Go to the DMV's calculator to find out how much a REAL or enhanced photo document will cost you, and the documents you'll need. Some websites claim to scan and upload documents from your home. However, these sites are not associated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these websites since they could be used for fraudulent purposes.