New York REAL ID requirements
$72.50 to upgrade, 2 proofs of address, and an appointment is required. Answer four questions below to get your exact list.
New York REAL ID document check
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New York at a glance
- Upgrade fee$72.50
- First-time fee$72.50
- Address documents2 required
- AppointmentRequired
- Online pre-applicationAvailable
- Card arrives in2-3 weeks
Documents New York accepts
Proof of identity — bring one
Original or certified copy only. Photocopies, laminated documents, and phone photos are rejected.
- Valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Certified U.S. birth certificate (with raised seal)
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240)
- Valid permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
- Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550/N-570)
- Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560/N-561)
Proof of Social Security number — bring one
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- SSA-1099 form
- Pay stub with full SSN
Proof of New York address — bring 2
Each document must show your name and street address. P.O. boxes are not accepted.
- Utility bill (within 60-90 days)
- Bank or credit card statement (within 60-90 days)
- Mortgage bill or rental/lease agreement
- Vehicle registration card
- IRS or government-issued mail
- Medical or insurance document with address
Proof of legal name change — only if your name changed
- Certified marriage certificate
- Certified divorce decree with name change
- Court order for legal name change
Before you go
Application form: MV-44 — Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card. Filling it out before you arrive saves counter time.
- Appointment required at DMV offices
- REAL ID has been required for domestic flights since May 7, 2025
- Fee includes 8-year license period
- NYC residents can visit any DMV office in the state
New York REAL ID questions
What documents do I need for a New York REAL ID?
Bring one proof of identity (Valid U.S. passport or passport card), one document showing your full Social Security number, 2 proofs of New York address, and certified proof of any legal name change. All documents must be originals or certified copies.
How much does a REAL ID cost in New York?
$72.50 to upgrade an existing New York license or ID, and $72.50 for a first-time card. Fees are set by the state and can change; the current amount is charged at the counter.
Do I need an appointment for a New York REAL ID?
Yes. New York requires an appointment for REAL ID service, so book before you go — walk-ins are generally turned away.
Can I apply for a New York REAL ID online?
New York lets you complete the application online in advance, but you still have to appear in person once so a clerk can verify your original documents and take your photo.
How long does a New York REAL ID take to arrive?
About 2-3 weeks. You normally leave the office with a temporary paper credential and the permanent card is mailed to the address on your application.
REAL ID in other states
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