What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a North Carolina driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards. It displays a small star in the upper-right corner and is accepted by TSA for domestic flights and entry to certain federal facilities.
You don't have to get a REAL ID — a valid U.S. passport also satisfies federal requirements. However, if you want your NC license to work for domestic air travel, you'll need the REAL ID version.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your NC REAL ID
Understand REAL ID Basics
REAL IDs are identifiable by a star symbol in the upper-right corner of the card. The REAL ID serves as an alternative to a passport for domestic flights and accessing certain federal buildings. A standard (non-REAL ID) NC license does not meet these federal requirements.
Decide: License vs. State ID
Choose between a driver's license or state ID card — both can be REAL ID compliant. If your current license is within its renewal window, you can renew directly into a REAL ID. Otherwise, you'll request a REAL ID upgrade.
Gather Required Documents
This is the most important step. Bring original or certified copies only — photocopies are generally not accepted. Missing documents is the #1 reason people get turned away.
Required Documents Checklist:
1. Proof of Identity & Date of Birth (one of these):
- Valid, unexpired U.S. passport
- Certified U.S. birth certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization (N-550, N-570)
- Certificate of Citizenship
- Unexpired foreign passport with valid visa and I-94
2. Proof of Social Security Number (one of these):
- Social Security card
- W-2 form (showing full SSN)
- Pay stub with full SSN
- SSA-1099 form
3. Two Proofs of NC Residency (two different documents):
- Utility bill (within 60 days)
- Bank or credit card statement (within 60 days)
- Mortgage document or lease agreement
- NC vehicle registration
- Voter registration card
- Pay stub with NC address
4. Name Change Documents (if applicable):
- Certified marriage certificate
- Divorce decree showing name change
- Court order for legal name change
Schedule Your DMV Appointment
REAL ID applications must be completed in person at an NC DMV driver license office. Appointments are strongly recommended — walk-in wait times can exceed 3-4 hours at busy offices.
The official DMV calendar often shows appointments booked 60-90 days out. Our alert service can notify you when cancellations open up, often finding slots within days.
Visit the DMV and Apply
At your appointment, you'll present your documents, confirm your information, and have your photo and signature captured. A vision screening is required for driver's licenses (not state IDs).
Pay Fees & Receive Temporary Credential
Pay the applicable fee (driver's licenses are priced per year of term — typically around $5.50/year for an 8-year license). You'll receive a temporary paper credential while your REAL ID card is mailed to your NC address within 2-3 weeks.
FAQs
Can I apply for a REAL ID online?
No. REAL ID applications require an in-person visit with original or certified documents. This is a federal requirement that cannot be bypassed.
Do I have to get a REAL ID?
It's optional. You'll need a REAL ID or another acceptable document (such as a U.S. passport) to fly domestically or access certain federal facilities. If you have a passport, a standard license may be sufficient for your needs.
What if my name has changed?
Bring legal documents connecting your current name to your identity document, such as a certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for each name change.
How long does it take to receive the card?
You leave with a temporary paper credential. The physical card is mailed to your NC address within 2-3 weeks after processing.
Pro Tip
Double-check your documents before your visit — most delays and rejections occur due to missing or non-matching paperwork. Use the NC DMV's online document checker if you're unsure.
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