10 Situations When You'll Need To Be Aware Of Buy A Real Driving License
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 have to do.
If you are in need of a REAL ID, then you'll have to go to the DMV and bring with you 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 an 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 adhere to certain standards for issuing or renewing driver's licenses and identification card. The purpose of the law is to create more secure and reliable type 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 have a star in the upper right corner, then it is 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 in New York is fairly straightforward. First, you have to go to a Secretary State Driver Services location to submit your application. i loved this must provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency, a valid ID photo, two proofs of residency and an amount of $28 (see the Fee Chart). You can find your nearest Secretary of State Driver Services location by using our Facility Locator.
After you have provided all the required documents and 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, you will receive your new standard DL/ID via mail. If you are approved for an 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 plan on traveling internationally, you'll need to have the passport instead of a Real ID. Passports are required to travel internationally as it is a more secure form of identification. This is also the case if you want to board commercial flights within the United States, as airlines will require that passengers possess a REAL ID or a valid passport to travel.
How can I get a Real Identification?
New York DMV provides a number of online tools to aid applicants in completing their application to obtain an Real ID. One of these tools, an individualized document check list, allows people to track the status of their application and determine what documents they must bring to their local DMV. A Youtube video can help people avoid the common mistakes that people make when applying for a Real ID.
The Real ID Act requires states to meet federal security standards for their standard driver's licenses as well as state identification cards. If they do not, they will be marked and will not be allowed to use their IDs for federal purposes. This includes boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. 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 compliant DMV-issued driver's license, permit or non-driver ID card. It will be required for air travel within the United States and to enter some federal buildings beginning in May 2025, unless you possess valid passport. Look for a gold-colored star on the card's top right corner to identify a RealID. Cards that are not conforming do not have the gold star.
If you are not able to meet all the requirements for the Real ID, you can still get an enhanced driver's license or enhanced photo ID that's in line with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. These documents are valid to travel by maritime or by land to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, but can't be used to fly between these destinations.
Individuals will need to go to the DMV in person to acquire an Real ID, or enhanced document. They will also need to bring a valid photo ID and proof of US citizenship and proof of state residency. The documents required will vary according to the circumstances but typically include one document for each category. For instance evidence of US citizenship can be naturalization or birth certificate, while evidence of residency in the state could be an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stubs with their address and name on it.
What do I need bring to the DMV to obtain a Real ID?
The documents you will have to submit to the DMV will differ based on what you are doing. There are some important items you must not forget to bring. Bring two pieces of identification documents. You are able to bring a valid passport, driver's licence or birth certificate. Bring a proof document to prove that you reside in New York. This could be something like an utility bill, a bank statement, or pay stub (the document must have your current address -- P.O. boxes or "in care of" addresses are not accepted).
Be sure to bring a photo that meets the requirements. The exact requirements for a photo will vary based on your situation, but most people need to take a face-to-face photograph that is clear and shows your 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, and you'll need to visit the DMV office or one of their partner offices, such as DMV Express. On the DMV's website you can see all the offices and their operating hours.
Make a reservation before you visit the DMV. This will help you avoid long waiting times.
The cost of a Real ID card in New York will depend on your specific situation. You'll need to pay for the application fee along with the photo and card. The cost will differ if you are applying for an entirely 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 be required 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 identity proofs legal standing, lawful standing, and Social Security number is different from the name that appears on your New York State ID or driver's licence, you must provide proof issued by a court or a government agency proving the reason for the change.
How long will it normally take to get an Real ID card?
Until recently renewing your license was as simple as receiving a mailer which informed you that it was time to renew. If you plan to fly, or access certain federal structures or military bases, now you require an enhanced driver's licence. The clock is ticking, but it's not enough time to get your Real ID.
The REAL ID Act mandates that states adhere to certain security standards with regard to their permits, licenses, and identification cards. The government states that the new rules make it harder for criminals trying to modify or counterfeit these documents. Federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration will require an actual ID, or an Enhanced photo ID to board domestic flights, or to enter certain federal facilities, like military bases.
To satisfy the federal requirements, you'll have to present specific proofs of identity to DMV when you apply for the Real or an Enhanced photo 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 existing driver's license or state ID card, you'll also need a birth certificate or other form of certified public record that includes the name and date of birth, as well as two evidences of New York residency. This could include the utility bill, bank statement, pay stub that has your current address, or printed online documents (documents with P.O. Boxes can't be used).
Based on your age, you'll also require either an official passport or a passport immigration document. 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 can allow you to qualify for discounts on airfare and help with housing.
If you're already a Real ID holder, you may not need to do anything more in regards to renewing. If you're looking for an enhanced or REAL photo document, check the DMV's online calculator for the 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 affiliated with the DMV. Do not send images of your personal documents to these companies since they could be used to commit fraud.