Changes are coming for people who are frequent flyers or frequently visit federal buildings. Beginning May 7, federal agencies will enforce the REAL ID Act requiring people to have a REAL ID, U.S. passport or another federally-approved verification before boarding commercial flights and entering federally secure buildings. 

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, comes over 20 years after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks upon the United States. 

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The REAL ID looks similar to a traditional drivers license but has a star in the top right corner, and the process to get one is similar to obtaining a regular drivers license. People must bring: 

  • One document with the person's full name that proves their identity and date of birth
    • One document confirming their social security number
      • Two documents proving they are a North Carolina resident, with their current physical address
        • One document proving liability insurance coverage from a provider licensed to do business in N.C.

          If a person has had their name legally changed -- such as taking a married name -- additional documents may be needed to verify that name change. Additional documents may also be needed for people who are not U.S. citizens.

          The state Department of Transportation (DOT) does note that the REAL ID is optional. It is not a requirement for: 

          • Driving
            • Voting
              • Apply for or receiving federal benefits
                • Entering federal facilities not requiring federal identification, like the post office
                  • Access to hospitals or receiving life-aving care
                    • Participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigations such as serving on a jury or testifying in court

                      Anyone under 18 is also not required to have a REAL ID to travel on airplanes. 

                      People who plan on getting a REAL ID should plan to make an appointment through the DMV website. 

                      The application process could be hampered by the ongoing problems at the NCDMV -- appointments are notoriously in short supply, and wait times are long. The DMV acknowledged these problems, citing staff vacancies and an overwhelming demand.

                      A full list of documents required to obtain a REAL ID is available on the DMV website.