Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies will enforce the REAL ID Act. To board commercial flights or enter certain secure federal buildings, individuals will need a REAL ID, a U.S. passport, or another federally approved form of identification.
The N.C. REAL ID is a driver license or identification card that meets federal requirements. These IDs include a star in the top right corner. Standard licenses and IDs issued without the star are marked with the phrase “Not for Federal Purposes.”
Obtaining a REAL ID is optional. It is not required to drive, vote, access hospitals, apply for federal benefits, or visit most federal facilities such as post offices. However, it may be useful for those who regularly travel by plane or visit federal installations like military bases or courthouses.
To get a REAL ID in North Carolina, individuals must visit an NCDMV driver license office in person. The following documents are required:
- One document showing full name and date of birth
- One document showing full name and full Social Security Number
- Two documents showing current physical address in North Carolina
- Proof of liability insurance (for licenses, not required for IDs)
- Documentation of any name changes, if applicable
- Proof of legal presence for non-U.S. citizens
Applicants should use the N.C. REAL ID Document Wizard online to help identify what documents to bring. REAL IDs cannot be obtained online and must be issued at a driver license office. Required documents will be scanned and stored in accordance with federal law.
The cost of a REAL ID is the same as a standard license or ID. If obtained during the renewal period, it is processed as a renewal. Outside of that period, it is issued as a duplicate, and a new photo is required. No written or road tests are needed unless the individual is renewing.
Appointments for REAL ID issuance can be made online through the NCDMV. When visiting, applicants should inform the examiner that they are applying for a REAL ID.
More information, including a full list of acceptable documents, is available on the NCDMV website.
