REAL ID Requirements Checker | DocumentVerify.com

REAL ID Requirements Checker

Verify if you have the necessary documents to obtain a REAL ID compliant license or ID card.

Important Notice

Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler will need a REAL ID-compliant license, REAL ID-compliant state ID card, or another acceptable form of identification for domestic air travel and to enter certain federal facilities.

Select your state and check off the documents you have ready for your REAL ID application. You must meet all document requirements to be eligible.
Select Your State
1. Proof of Identity and Date of Birth
Select ONE document from the list below
2. Proof of Social Security Number
Select ONE document from the list below
3. Proof of Residency
Select TWO documents from the list below with your current physical address
4. Proof of Name Change (If Applicable)
Required only if your current name differs from your identity document
5. Document Type
Proof of Liability Insurance
Required for Driver License applicants only

Document Status

Based on your selections

Please check your documents

Requirements Summary

Proof of Identity Not Selected
Social Security Number Not Selected
Residency Documents Not Selected
Name Change Not Applicable
Insurance (Driver License Only) Not Applicable
Overall Status Incomplete
Disclaimer: This tool provides general guidance based on the most common requirements for a REAL ID in North Carolina. Requirements may vary based on individual circumstances. Always verify the most current requirements with your state's DMV before your visit. This tool is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee document approval.

Understanding REAL ID

Why You Need a REAL ID

Beginning May 7, 2025, you'll need a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted form of ID for:

  • Boarding domestic flights
  • Entering federal buildings
  • Visiting military installations
  • Entering nuclear facilities

Without a REAL ID or alternative acceptable ID (like a passport), you won't be able to get past TSA checkpoints for domestic flights.

About the REAL ID Act

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the federal government set standards for sources of identification.

  • Establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards
  • Prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant IDs for official purposes
  • Implementation has been gradually phased in across states
  • Final enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025

How to Identify a REAL ID

REAL ID-compliant licenses and ID cards are marked with a star at the top of the card. The specific design may vary by state.

  • Look for a star, gold star, black star, or star cutout in the upper portion of the card
  • Some states use different symbols or indicators
  • Non-compliant cards are typically marked "Not for Federal Identification" or similar wording
  • REAL IDs have enhanced security features to prevent tampering and counterfeiting

Application Process

To get a REAL ID, you must apply in person at your state's driver's license agency. Here's what to expect:

  1. Document Collection: Gather all required documents based on your state's requirements.
  2. DMV Visit: Bring original or certified documents to your DMV. Photocopies are generally not accepted unless certified by the issuing agency.
  3. Document Scanning: Your documents will be scanned and stored in the DMV system.
  4. Photo and Fee: Have your photo taken and pay the applicable fee (varies by state).
  5. Processing: In most states, you'll receive a temporary document and your permanent REAL ID will arrive by mail.

The application process is similar to getting a regular license or ID, but with stricter document requirements. Plan ahead and make an appointment if your state's DMV offers this option to reduce wait times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a REAL ID?

You need a REAL ID (or another acceptable form of ID like a passport) only if you plan to:

  • Fly domestically within the U.S.
  • Enter federal buildings
  • Visit military bases
  • Enter nuclear power plants

If you don't plan to do any of these activities, you can continue to use a standard driver's license or ID card for driving, voting, accessing hospitals, applying for federal benefits, and other everyday activities.

What if I already have a valid U.S. Passport?

If you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, these are acceptable alternatives to a REAL ID for domestic air travel and entering federal facilities. You can continue to use your passport instead of obtaining a REAL ID.

Other acceptable forms of ID include:

  • U.S. Department of Defense ID
  • Permanent resident card
  • Border crossing card
  • DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
  • HSPD-12 PIV card
  • Foreign passport
  • Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
  • Transportation worker identification credential
  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

How much does a REAL ID cost?

The cost varies by state. In North Carolina, a REAL ID costs the same as a standard license or ID card:

  • Driver License: $44 for an 8-year license
  • ID Card: $14 for an 8-year ID card

If you're getting a REAL ID before your current license or ID expires, you may be charged a duplicate fee. Check with your state's DMV for specific pricing information.

Can I use digital documents for my REAL ID application?

Generally, original or certified documents are required for REAL ID applications. However, many states, including North Carolina, do accept printed electronic copies of some documents, such as:

  • Online utility bills
  • Bank statements
  • Insurance statements

For core identity documents like birth certificates, social security cards, or passports, original or certified copies are required. Photocopies or digital images on your phone are typically not accepted.

It's always safest to bring original documents or certified copies issued by the appropriate agency.

What if I've had multiple name changes?

If you've had multiple name changes, you'll need to provide documentation that shows the complete chain of name changes from your identity document to your current legal name.

For example, if your birth certificate shows your maiden name, and you've been married and divorced several times with name changes each time, you would need:

  • Your birth certificate
  • Your first marriage certificate showing your first name change
  • Your divorce decree showing the next name change
  • Your second marriage certificate
  • And so on for each subsequent name change

Each document must be an original or certified copy and must create an unbroken link between your birth name and current name.

Can I get a REAL ID for my child?

Yes, children can get REAL ID-compliant identification cards. The documentation requirements are similar to those for adults, but with some differences:

  • For proof of identity and date of birth: Birth certificate or passport
  • For Social Security Number: Social Security card
  • For residency: Parent or guardian's proof of residency documents, along with documentation of the relationship between the parent/guardian and child

For children under 18, additional documents like magazine subscriptions, school records, or medical records may be acceptable as proof of residency. The parent or guardian must accompany the minor to the DMV.

Remember that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States, but the companion will need acceptable identification.