North Carolina Real IDs: Everything You Need To Know

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The North Carolina Real ID’s deadline is on the horizon, coming up in the next few years. For those who want to continue using their driver’s license as a way to gain access to domestic flights and federal buildings, it’s critical to swap out the classic ID with a Real one. How can you complete this process in North Carolina?

If you’re interested in learning more about accessing a Real ID in North Carolina, you’re in the right place. The more familiar you are with this process, the easier it will be to gather your new identification if you decide it’s the right choice. Read on to learn more about a Real ID, how to obtain one in North Carolina, and the difference between a Real and Standard identification. 

So What Is A Real ID In North Carolina?

The North Carolina Real ID is a version of identification that meets the standards that appear in the REAL ID Act of 2005. It doesn’t replace anything or add anything new - instead, it’s further analysis and a symbol added to the ID for further verification. 

Once May 7, 2025, hits, drivers must have their Real ID on hand if they want to board a domestic flight or get inside a federal government property. Those IDs that are legal Real IDs in North Carolina will have a large star in the corner, surrounded by a gold circle.

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The Real ID is recommended, but it isn’t a requirement if you live in North Carolina. You will always have access to domestic flights if you use a passport or a U.S. military identification instead. However, the Real ID is much more convenient, especially for those who travel and visit these buildings often. 

Of course, it’s critical to note that the Real ID or lack thereof will not have an impact on your ability to perform basic tasks like applying for federal benefits, driving, or voting. The Real ID exists to meet specific requirements set forth by the federal government. A solid understanding of these items will bring peace of mind to North Carolina residents. 

How Can You Obtain a Real ID In North Carolina?

There are several steps you must follow to meet the Real ID standards in North Carolina. Here are the steps you should follow and information to know before beginning: 

  1. Determine Eligibility: Determine whether it’s the right time to gather your Real ID before heading to the DMV. Also, ensure you’re prepared to go through the process before diving into the endeavor.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Pull together the required documents to get your Real ID. You will need a document proving your identity and birthday, proof of social security number, two documents proving you live in North Carolina, a document proving liability insurance coverage, and any other items declaring a name change or legal status if applicable. 
  3. Make An Appointment: There is a high demand for DMV appointments. It’s best to make an appointment online first, though they are only available until noon in North Carolina. 
  4. Pay the Fee: There is no cost associated with a Real ID in North Carolina. Instead, the price point for this official identification is the same as what it would be if you were to get a traditional identification card. 
  5. Visit the DMV: Gather your documents and head to the DMV. Then, speak to the next person you can.
  6. Wait for Your New ID: Once you’ve completed the process, it’s time to wait for the new ID to arrive in the mail. It should only take a few weeks for it to come.

It’s vital to note that you aren’t required to have a Real ID in North Carolina. However, it’s a valuable choice for varying forms of travel and access, from domestic flights to federal access.

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What Is the Difference Between a Real ID and a Standard ID in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Real ID differs from a typical form of identification. Each provides a similar purpose of identifying a person, but there are many areas where they are distinct from each other. These are critical to note for a complete understanding.

  • Documentation process: You must follow many more steps for a Real ID in North Carolina. Typically, the process will be longer than a classic identification.
  • Visual appearance: In a North Carolina Real ID, a star in the corner surrounded by a golden circle shows it’s a Real ID.
  • Optional upgrade: The Real ID is a practical choice, but it’s optional. It isn’t a requirement for a North Carolina citizen. 
  • Federal identification: The Real ID falls in line with standards created by the Department of Homeland Security. 
  • Renewal: The process of renewing a Real ID in North Carolina needs far more documentation than a traditional ID.
  • Cost: If you want a North Carolina Real ID, it will cost more than a classic ID option.

It’s up to you to determine if a Real ID is the right choice for your life in North Carolina. It isn’t a requirement by law, but it is a useful choice if you are going to be traveling domestically often or plan on heading inside federal buildings. If you don’t do either of these things, it might not be worth it to go through the Real ID process.

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Final Thoughts

The North Carolina Real ID is a modern upgrade to the classic identification system, providing a more comprehensive security analysis of an individual to provide simple access to domestic flights and federal buildings. By further understanding the requirements and the process, North Carolina residents will feel confident in the Real ID process.

Before you dive into the Real ID process, remember that it’s going to be a little more stressful than the classic identification. Prepare yourself and gather as much as you can ahead of time to simplify everything and make it much easier on your end. Getting a Real ID in North Carolina doesn’t have to be stressful if you know what you’re doing.

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