The documents New York requires for Real ID

To get a Real ID in New York, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of lawful status. The state accepts multiple forms of each — you do not need a specific document, but you do need one from each category. You will also need to bring your current driver's license or non-driver ID if you have one.

Real ID is a federal standard that makes your driver's license or ID card acceptable at airport security checkpoints and federal buildings. New York began issuing Real ID cards in 2017, and as of now, a standard driver's license will not work for domestic air travel without Real ID. You can get a Real ID when you renew your license, or you can request one at any time by visiting a DMV office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document from each of four categories: identity, Social Security number, residency, and lawful status.
  • New York accepts multiple forms in each category, so you have options if you do not have a passport or birth certificate.
  • You must visit a DMV office in person — you cannot get Real ID by mail or online.
  • The DMV will make copies of your documents, so bring originals, not photocopies.
  • If your name has changed since you obtained your identity documents, bring proof of the name change as well.

Proof of identity documents New York accepts

A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest single document because it covers both identity and lawful status. If you have one, bring it — you will still need to provide Social Security and residency proof, but the passport simplifies the identity part.

If you do not have a passport, New York accepts a certified birth certificate issued by the state or county where you were born. The certificate must show your name, date of birth, and place of birth. A hospital-issued birth certificate or a photocopy will not work. You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born — most states mail them within one to two weeks.

Other accepted identity documents include a valid foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. If you were adopted, an amended birth certificate showing your adoptive parents' names works as well.

Proof of Social Security number

You need one document showing your Social Security number. A Social Security card is the most straightforward option. If you have lost your card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DMV visit, though the DMV can sometimes accept other documents if you do not have the card itself.

New York also accepts a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your Social Security number. These must be from the current or previous year. If you are self-employed or have not filed taxes recently, a bank statement or mortgage statement with your Social Security number printed on it will work. Some employers also issue pay stubs with the Social Security number visible.

Proof of New York residency

You must show that you live in New York. The document must be dated within the last 30 days and show your name and current address. A utility bill — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the most common choice. If you do not have a utility bill in your name, a lease agreement or mortgage statement works.

Other accepted residency documents include a property tax bill, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document such as a tax return or benefits letter. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, the DMV has a process for that — contact your local office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

Proof of lawful status in the United States

This is the category that varies most depending on your citizenship or immigration status. If you are a U.S. citizen, a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship satisfies this requirement. A certified birth certificate also works if you were born in the United States.

If you are a permanent resident, bring your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Permanent Resident Card receipt notice. If you have a work visa or other temporary immigration status, New York accepts Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), Arrival/Departure records (I-94), or visa stamps in your passport. If your status is pending, bring a receipt notice from USCIS showing your case number and that your process is under review.

If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have one of these documents, contact your local DMV office before your visit. New York has specific rules for people in different immigration categories, and the office can tell you what documents will work for your situation.

What to bring to the DMV office

Bring the original documents themselves, not photocopies. The DMV will make copies for your file. Bring your current driver's license or non-driver ID if you have one. If you have changed your name since you obtained your identity documents — through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

You will also need to fill out the MV-44 form (process for a New York State Driver License or Permit) or MV-44.1 form (process for a New York State Non-Driver ID Card). You can fill these out at home before you go, or the DMV will provide them at the office. Bring a pen in case you need to complete the form on-site.

Check your local DMV office's website or call ahead to confirm their current hours and whether they require an appointment. Some offices operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. Having an appointment usually means a shorter wait.

What happens after you submit your documents

The DMV will review your documents while you are at the office. If everything is in order, you will have your photo taken and pay the fee for a Real ID. The cost varies depending on whether you are renewing your license or getting a new one, and whether you are getting a standard license or a Real ID. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot.

Your actual Real ID card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The DMV will mail it to the address you provided on your process. If you need to travel before your card arrives, the temporary paper license is valid for domestic air travel and federal building access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate instead of the original?

No. The DMV requires original documents. However, you can bring a certified copy of your birth certificate, which is an official copy issued by the vital records office where you were born. A photocopy you made yourself will not work.

What if my name on my documents does not match my current name?

Bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will need to see both your old name and your new name documented. If you have changed your name multiple times, bring documents showing each change in order.

Do I need to bring originals of everything, or can I bring copies?

Bring originals. The DMV will photocopy them for your file. Bringing photocopies instead of originals will delay your process because the DMV cannot verify them on the spot.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Contact your local DMV office before your visit. New York has a process for people who cannot provide a Social Security number, though it may require additional documentation or a letter explaining your situation.

Can I get Real ID by mail or online?

No. You must visit a DMV office in person. You cannot renew or obtain a Real ID through the mail or online, even if you already have a standard driver's license.