How to Get a REAL ID in North Carolina

A North Carolina REAL ID is a type of credential that you can receive from the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can obtain either a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card depending on your needs. Having a secure credential such as this will make it easier for you to fly domestically and enter federal facilities in the future.

Obtaining a DMV REAL ID in North Carolina is completely optional. However, under the REAL ID act, you will need a federally compliant form of identification in order to fly (even domestically) or access restricted federal locations. If you do not get a secure card from the DMV, you will need an alternative form of identification that meets the federal standards.

The process for obtaining REAL IDs is similar to that for getting a standard card. You will need to visit the DMV in person, pay a fee for your card and take any tests that may be required for your license. The main difference between DMV REAL IDs and standard cards is that you must present additional documentation to get your secure card. Visually, the only difference between standard and secure cards is that secure credentials have a star in the corner. Read More