What Is The Difference Between A Real ID And An Enhanced ID In NY? I’m very sure this question keeps going on in your mind. But do not worry as in this blog post we will discuss everything related to this topic.
But before diving into this topic, are you looking for an in-depth guide on DMV NY? If yes, please check out our detailed guide.
Brief Overview On Different IDs
Now we will see the difference between what is the difference between a real Id and an enhanced id in NY.
Real ID refers to a type of driving permit or identity card that has been approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in New York State which meets standards set out in federal law.
It seeks to make driving licenses and identity cards more reliable in terms of authenticity, making it hard for terrorists to board planes with fake identifications or access federal buildings using them.
Primary Purpose
The main purpose of a Real ID is to be presented as a secure form of identification when traveling within America or entering federal facilities. All travelers starting from May 7, 2025 shall require a Real ID compliant identification such as Real ID driving license or passport when boarding domestic flights or entering any federal building(s).
Requirements
The act was passed by Congress after September 11th attacks in 2005. The legislation creates minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses, permits, and identification cards.
These include:
- Issuing authority: The state has an effective procedure that can identify who the applicant really is or whether he/she abides by all legal formalities.
- Document security: A photo, signature, and a unique identifier are some of the major characteristics that must be present on the license or ID card.
- Data collection: Names, dates of birth, and addresses are examples among other information fields that a state should collect while applying residents for its documents.
The Real ID is for domestic travel, while the Enhanced ID offers added security for international border crossings. Choose based on needs.
Features And Uses
A gold star is placed at the top right corner area on a Real ID issued driver’s license or identity card.
These are used for:
- Domestic air travel
- Entry into federal facilities
- TSA Precheck
- Some state and local government purposes
Therefore, the gold star on a Real ID signifies its use for domestic air travel, entry into federal facilities, and TSA Precheck. Ensure you have this identification for seamless travel and access to federal services.
Importance Of Getting A Real ID
If you do not have a Real ID, you will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter federal facilities without another form of acceptable identification, such as a passport by May 7, 2025. It is important to plan ahead and get a Real ID well in advance of the deadline.
Comparison of Real ID and Standard ID Features:
- Security Features: The license may feature a golden star located at the upper right corner; however, some licenses do not contain this golden star.
- Federal Requirements: Some licenses comply with all REAL ID standards set by the Federal Government, while others do not comply with these standards.
- Domestic Air Travel: A REAL ID is obligatory for domestic air travel, but there are instances where it is not required.
- Federal Facilities: Accessing federal facilities requires a REAL ID, which is mandatory for entry.
Real ID offers benefits like TSA Precheck and federal access, while Standard ID lacks these features. Choose accordingly.
Main Purpose Of An Enhanced ID
The first intention of Enhanced IDs is to serve as secure identification for land border crossings into Canada and Mexico, and they can also be used for maritime border crossings.
To understand what is the difference between a Real ID and an Enhanced ID in NY, consider the specific purposes and features of each.
Other Benefits And Features
Enhanced IDs streamline travel with faster border crossings, increased security from a biometric chip, and convenience for Mexico-Canada travel.
- Faster border crossings – They are usually processed faster than regular passports
- Increased security – It makes counterfeiting difficult because of a biometric chip that comes with it
- Convenience – This allows Mexicans and Canadians to travel without separate passports between the two countries
Therefore, Enhanced IDs offer faster processing, enhanced security, and travel convenience, making them ideal for cross-border trips.
How Is Enhanced ID Different From A Standard ID
There are several points of departure between an Enhanced ID as well as a standard driver’s license or I.D card
There are few points which includes:
- Biometric chip: personal information and fingerprints are contained in this kind of biometric chips which are required by all Enhanced IDs,
- International travel: Enhanced IDs have been specifically designed for International Travel while Standard IDs primarily cater for domestic traveling.
- Cost: It always seems quite expensive to acquire some Enhanced IDs compared to Standard IDs.
Comparison of Real ID, Enhanced ID, and Standard ID Features
- Security Features: Licenses may feature a gold star in the upper right corner and contain a biometric chip. Alternatively, some licenses do not contain either the gold star or the biometric chip.
- Federal Requirements: Some licenses contain a gold star in the upper right corner and include a biometric chip, while others do not contain either feature.
- Domestic Air Travel: Certain licenses meet all federal REAL ID standards, while others do not meet these standards.
- Federal Facilities: Real IDs are required by law for use at federal facilities; however, no specific requirements exist regarding their usage, and some federal facilities do not require any identification document.
- International Travel (Land Border Crossings) and Maritime Border Crossings: There are no legal requirements for Real IDs at federal facilities. However, they are required for land and maritime border crossings into Canada and Mexico. It is important to note that Real IDs are not mandatory for international travel, whereas Enhanced IDs are required for such purposes.
- Biometric Chip: Some licenses include a biometric chip, while others do not.
- Costs: The cost of Real IDs is generally higher than that of standard IDs, with prices ranging from $40 to $45 compared to $10 to $20 for a standard ID. In contrast, the cost of a standard ID is lower than that of Real IDs or Enhanced IDs, priced at around $3.
Short Difference Between Real ID And Enhanced ID
To understand what is the difference between a Real ID and an Enhanced ID in NY, examine their purposes, security features, and benefits.
Purpose And Uses
Understanding the purpose and uses of a Real ID versus an Enhanced ID helps you choose the right identification for your needs.
- Real ID: Primarily used for domestic flights within the United States.
- Enhanced ID: Specifically designed for land or sea borders with Canada and Mexico.
Choosing between a Real ID and an Enhanced ID depends on your travel plans and security requirements.
Security Features
Understanding security features is crucial when comparing Real IDs and Enhanced IDs for your identification and travel needs.
- Real IDs feature a gold star on the top right corner while meeting all federal REAL ID standards.
- Enhanced IDs have biometric chips that store personal information as well as fingerprints.
Both Real IDs and Enhanced IDs offer distinct security features to ensure your identification is secure and compliant.
International Travel
International travel regulations vary between Real IDs and Enhanced IDs, especially for crossing borders with Canada and Mexico.
- Real IDs are not required when traveling internationally.
- However, this document is inevitable during land or sea border crossing to Canadian or Mexican territories.
When planning international travel, understanding the differences in ID requirements is essential for smooth border crossings.
Cost
On the other hand, Real IDs cost less compared to those of Enhanced IDs. Alternatively, one can say that Enhanced IDs are more expensive than normal identification cards since they have added security features attached to them.
Additional Benefits Of An Enhanced ID
Understanding the benefits of Enhanced ID can help you choose the right one for your travel needs.
- Faster border crossings – It can often speed up border crossings,
- Increased security – The existence of a biometric chip adds some extra layers of security,
- Convenience – Travelling documents do not require carrying another passport when visiting Canada or Mexico
Table: Comparison between Real ID and Enhanced ID
| Feature | Real ID | Enhanced ID |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Domestic air travel, federal facilities | Land and maritime border crossings |
| Security | Gold star, meets federal standards | Biometric chip |
| International travel | Not required | Required for Canada/Mexico |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Additional benefits | None | Faster border crossings, increased security, convenience |
Therefore, the two identifications have their own advantages even though they are all effective and reliable. When traveling domestically, a Real ID is enough.
However, for regular travelers to Canada or Mexico, an Enhanced ID can be very beneficial to you.
Methods Of Obtaining Each Type of ID
Simplify your application by understanding the detailed requirements for getting a Real ID or Enhanced ID in New York.
Obtaining A Real ID
Learn how to obtain a New York Real ID with essential steps like visiting the DMV, providing documentation, and paying fees.
To obtain a New York Real ID you must;
- Visit a DMV office: You can either book online or go directly to authorized DMV offices that issue Real IDs.
- Provide documentation: These include your identity documents; date of birth; proof that you are legally in US territory; and your social security number.
- Submit fingerprints: The application process involves taking your fingerprints too.
- Pay the fee: It is not free to get a Real ID.
Follow these steps to successfully get your New York Real ID: visit the DMV, provide required documents, submit fingerprints, and pay the fee.
Obtaining An Enhanced ID
Discover how to obtain an Enhanced ID by visiting a DMV office, providing required documents, and paying the fee.
To acquire an Enhanced Identification Card you have to follow this steps:
- Visit a DMV office: Book an appointment through the internet or alternatively visit any of the DMV offices officially designated to offer Enhanced IDs.
- Provide documentation: You will be required to provide various proofs such as; identity proof, birth notification certificate (BNC), legal presence in USA notifications etc including social security number(s) and citizenship/immigration status.
- Submit fingerprints: Your biometric information is collected during the course of your application.
- Pay the fee: There is a charge for getting an Enhanced Identification Card.
To get your Enhanced ID, visit the DMV, submit documentation and fingerprints, and pay the applicable fee.
Additional Requirements
Compare the requirements for obtaining a Real ID versus an Enhanced ID, including documentation and additional proofs needed.
- Real ID: No additional requirements are needed to obtain a Real ID.
- Enhanced ID: You must provide proof of citizenship or immigration status, such as a passport or birth certificate.
Table: Comparison between Real ID and Enhanced ID Requirements
| Requirement | Real ID | Enhanced ID |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of identity | Required | Required |
| Date of birth | Required | Required |
| Legal presence in the US | Required | Required |
| Social Security number | Required | Required |
| Fingerprints | Required | Required |
| Citizenship or immigration status | Not required | Required |
It should be noted that slight variations exist in the process depending on individual circumstances. To get more information regarding this, one can visit New York State DMV website or make an appointment there.
Conclusion
In short we have discuss what is the difference between a Real ID and an Enhanced ID in NY. While both are valid identification documents issued by New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV), they serve different purposes and have unique attributes.
Though it is necessary to consider your individual requirements and travel plans when deciding whether to go for a Real ID or an Enhanced ID.
If you mostly move within the country, then a Real ID will do. On the other hand, if you often cross into Canada and Mexico, an Enhanced ID can be very beneficial to you.
