Secure Your REAL ID in North Carolina Before May 7 to Avoid Travel Hassles

Starting May 7, residents of North Carolina will need a REAL ID or another federally approved form of identification to board domestic flights or access certain federal facilities. This is part of the enforcement of the REAL ID Act, a federal law passed in 2005 aimed at increasing security in identification documents.

The REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets stricter security standards. North Carolina has been issuing these updated IDs since 2017, but the federal government has delayed the enforcement deadline multiple times. Now, as of May 7, the time to comply is finally here.

Why the REAL ID Is Important

The REAL ID is part of a nationwide effort to improve the security of identification documents used for federal purposes. Beginning in May 2025, travelers will be required to present a REAL ID or an alternative approved form of identification (such as a passport) in order to board domestic flights. Similarly, anyone wishing to enter certain federal buildings, such as military bases or federal courthouses, will need to show a REAL ID.

This change affects residents of all 50 states, and North Carolina is no exception. According to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), nearly 4.1 million residents, which is about 48% of North Carolinians with a state-issued ID, have already obtained a REAL ID. However, many residents are still unaware of the upcoming deadline, and as a result, DMV offices may experience long lines as the enforcement date approaches.

How to Obtain a REAL ID in North Carolina

To get a REAL ID, North Carolinians must visit their local DMV office and provide specific documents. The process is straightforward but requires certain proofs to ensure that your identity is verified according to federal standards.

Documents Needed

To apply for a REAL ID, applicants must provide the following:

1. Proof of identity and birthdate
   • Accepted documents include a U.S. birth certificate or a U.S. passport.
2. Proof of Social Security number
   • You will need to provide a Social Security card or an IRS W-2 form.
3. Two documents proving North Carolina residency
   • You can provide a utility bill, voter card, or similar official document showing your North Carolina address.

Cost of the REAL ID

The cost of obtaining a REAL ID is the same as a standard driver’s license. The fees are as follows:

• $52 for an eight-year renewal of your driver’s license.
• $16.75 for a duplicate if you have lost your license or need to make changes.

The REAL ID is valid for eight years, and there are no additional costs beyond the standard renewal fee. Be sure to bring the correct documents and payment with you to the DMV when applying.

What Happens if You Don’t Get a REAL ID?

If you do not have a REAL ID by May 7, you will still be able to fly domestically, but you will need to present an alternate form of ID, such as a passport. A passport is one of the accepted alternatives to a REAL ID for domestic air travel.

Additionally, you will not be able to use your state-issued driver’s license to access federal facilities like military bases or federal courthouses. The licenses that do not meet the federal standards will be marked as “Not for Federal Identification”.

A REAL ID will feature a star in the upper right corner, so you can easily distinguish it from regular IDs. If your ID does not have this star, it means it does not meet the federal standards and will not be accepted for federal identification purposes.

Appointment Scheduling

To avoid long wait times at the DMV, residents are encouraged to schedule an appointment online. Appointments for REAL ID issuance can be made at the official North Carolina DMV website at skiptheline.ncdot.gov. Scheduling an appointment will help save time and ensure that you have the necessary documents when you arrive.

Additional Information and Tips

• Prepare for the wait: DMV offices may be busier than usual leading up to the May 7 deadline, so it’s a good idea to visit sooner rather than later.
• Renew early: If you’re due for a license renewal soon, consider upgrading to a REAL ID now. This way, you can avoid the rush as the deadline approaches.
• Check your documents: Ensure that your documents meet the requirements before you head to the DMV. If any documents are outdated or incorrect, it may delay your application process.
• Keep your REAL ID safe: Once you receive your REAL ID, make sure to keep it in a safe place, as it is required for many federal purposes.

Key Dates to Remember:

• May 7, 2025: Enforcement begins—REAL IDs will be required for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
• Schedule early: Appointments for REAL ID issuance can be made now, and DMV offices may become crowded closer to the deadline.

Why It’s Crucial to Get Your REAL ID Now

It’s essential to obtain a REAL ID ahead of the enforcement deadline to ensure you’re prepared for air travel and access to federal facilities. With May 7 fast approaching, North Carolinians should begin the process of getting their REAL ID now to avoid any disruptions or delays.

While you can still use other forms of identification like a passport for air travel, the REAL ID will make future travel and federal access smoother. Take the necessary steps today to ensure you have your REAL ID by May 7, 2025, and enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for any situation.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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