What You Need to Get a Real ID in North Carolina

A Real ID is a driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. North Carolina issues Real IDs through the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You will need to visit a DMV office in person, bring specific documents, and pay a fee. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

North Carolina began issuing Real IDs in 2009. As of now, a Real ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you have a standard North Carolina driver's license or ID card issued before 2009, or if your current license does not have a gold star in the upper right corner, you have a standard ID, not a Real ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with original documents — you cannot renew a Real ID by mail or online.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of North Carolina residency, and your current driver's license or ID card.
  • The fee for a Real ID is the same as a standard license renewal in North Carolina, currently $80 for an eight-year license.
  • A Real ID has a gold star in the upper right corner and is valid for eight years from the date of issue.
  • If you do not have a Real ID and need one for air travel, you can use a passport or passport card instead.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

The DMV requires four categories of documents. First, bring an original or certified proof of identity. This can be a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or a valid foreign passport. A photocopy is not acceptable — the document must be original.

Second, bring proof of your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number visible. A tax return also works. Again, originals only.

Third, bring proof of North Carolina residency. The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A bill with your name and current address will do. If you have recently moved, bring the document that shows your current address.

Fourth, bring your current driver's license or ID card. If you have lost it, bring a police report of the loss or a statement signed by you saying it was lost or stolen.

How to Find Your Local DMV Office and Make an Appointment

North Carolina has DMV offices in every county. You can find your nearest office and check hours on the official DMV website at ncdmv.org. The site has a location finder tool where you enter your county or city.

You can schedule an appointment online through the same website. Appointments are not required but are strongly recommended because they reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait 45 minutes to two hours depending on the office and time of day. Appointments typically fill up two to four weeks in advance during busy seasons.

When you schedule online, you will select the service (Real ID or standard license renewal), choose your office, and pick a date and time. You will receive a confirmation number. Bring this number with you to the office.

What Happens at the DMV Office

When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your confirmation number or tell the staff you are a walk-in. A DMV employee will review your documents to make sure you have everything. If a document is missing or does not meet the requirements, they will tell you what you need to bring back.

If your documents are complete, the DMV will take your photograph and signature. You will answer questions about your address, any name changes, and whether you want to register as an organ donor. You will also choose whether you want your Real ID to be REAL ID compliant only or also compliant with the ENHANCED ID standard (which allows entry to military bases and some federal facilities). Most people choose standard Real ID.

You will pay the fee at the counter. North Carolina charges $80 for an eight-year driver's license or ID card, whether it is a standard ID or a Real ID. If you are under 18, the fee is lower. After payment, you will receive a receipt with a temporary license number you can use when ready for identification purposes.

When Your Real ID Will Arrive

Your physical Real ID card will be mailed to the address you provided at the DMV. Standard processing takes 7 to 10 business days. During busy periods, it may take up to two weeks. The DMV will mail it to you at no extra charge.

While you wait, you can use the temporary license number on your receipt for most purposes. However, you cannot use it to board a plane — you will need your old license, a passport, or another acceptable form of ID for air travel until your Real ID arrives.

If your Real ID does not arrive within three weeks, contact the DMV office where you applied. You can call the DMV customer service line or visit the office in person with your receipt.

Real ID vs. Standard License: What the Difference Means

A Real ID has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. You can use it to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. A standard license has no star and does not meet federal standards. You cannot use a standard license to board a plane — you will need a passport or passport card instead.

Both types of license cost the same in North Carolina and are valid for eight years. The only practical difference is where you can use it. If you fly domestically or visit federal facilities regularly, a Real ID is more convenient. If you rarely fly and have a passport, a standard license is sufficient.

If you already have a Real ID and it is still valid, you do not need to renew it. You can continue using it until it expires. When you renew, you can choose to get another Real ID or switch to a standard license.

If You Do Not Have the Required Documents

If you do not have an original birth certificate or passport, you can order one before you visit the DMV. A certified birth certificate can be ordered from the North Carolina Vital Records office online at vitalrecords.nc.gov or by mail. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days for online orders and longer for mail orders.

If you do not have a Social Security card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration. You can explore online at ssa.gov or visit your local Social Security office. Processing takes 10 to 14 business days.

If you cannot gather the required documents, you have another option: use a passport or passport card for air travel and federal building access instead of a Real ID. A passport does not require a visit to the DMV and serves the same purpose for travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Real ID by mail or online?

No. North Carolina requires you to renew a Real ID in person at a DMV office. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your current license is still valid. Standard licenses can be renewed by mail, but Real IDs cannot.

What if I have changed my name since my last license?

Bring your original marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change along with your other documents. The DMV will update your name on your Real ID. You will still need all four categories of documents listed above.

Do I need a Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A passport or passport card works for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. You do not need a Real ID if you have a valid passport. A Real ID is only necessary if you want to use your driver's license for these purposes instead.

What if I lose my Real ID before it expires?

Visit a DMV office and report it lost or stolen. You will need to bring your documents again and pay the renewal fee. The DMV will issue a replacement Real ID with a new expiration date eight years from the date of replacement.

Can I get a Real ID if I am not a U.S. citizen?

North Carolina issues Real IDs only to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. If you are a lawful permanent resident, bring your green card as your proof of identity. If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, you can get a standard North Carolina driver's license or ID card instead.