This page was updated for COVID-19.

Get an Enhanced or REAL ID

After May 3, 2023, only the Enhanced or REAL ID will be accepted to get on a domestic flight (within the U.S.), or to enter certain federal buildings or military bases (unless you have a passport or another federally-accepted form of ID).

If you plan to travel, upgrade now!

  • Do not have a license yet? Learn how to get a learner permit
  • If you do not need to drive, you can get a driver non-driver ID
  • Need to commercial driver license (CDL)?  Learn how to get a CDL
  • Already have an Enhanced or REAL ID?  learn how to renew

Step 1: Determine which ID is right for you

New York State offers 3 types of IDs

  • Enhanced
  • REAL ID
  • Standard

See a detailed comparison.


Answer the questions below to find out which type is right for you


Based on your answers above, you should get a...

  • Standard driver license, permit or non-driver ID card

If you have a Passport, you can use it for identification, boarding a plane for domestic (within the U.S.) and international flights and to enter certain federal buildings or a military base.


Based on your answers above, you should get...

aFederal REAL ID driver license, permit or non-driver ID card.

Remember, you will need a Passport to fly to other countries .

Based on your answers above, you should get a

  • Federal REAL ID driver license, permit or non-driver ID card.

Remember, you need a Passport to fly to other countries.

Based on your answers above, you should get a

  • Federal REAL ID driver license, permit or non-driver ID card.

Remember, you need a Passport to fly to other countries .


Based on your answers above, you should get an

  • Enhanced driver license, permit or non-driver ID card, if you are a U.S. Citizen.

Remember, you need a Passport to fly to other countries.

Step 2. Gather the necessary documentation

Be prepared! Complete this guide to be sure you have the proof of identity you need to get a license, permit or ID before you go to a DMV office.


Find out what
documents you need

Application for Permit, Driver License or Non-Driver ID Card (PDF) (MV-44)

How to Apply for a New York: Learner Permit, Driver License, Non-Driver ID Card (PDF) ID-44

Step 3. Visit a DMV office

Submit all your documentation to a DMV office.

See location, instructions and reservation information for your DMV

What happens next?

You will get your Enhanced or REAL ID in 2 weeks

It takes about 2 weeks for your new Enhanced and REAL ID document to arrive in the mail.