The deadline to get a REAL ID in SC is soon, but do you need one? Here’s what to know
If you want a South Carolina REAL ID for U.S. domestic travel, you have about two months to get it.
The federal identification requirements begin May 7, 2025, in South Carolina. Residents will need the identification card after that date if they want to fly in the U.S., visit some secure federal buildings, or military installations.
“The time for waiting on Real ID is over,” Kevin Shwedo, executive director of the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, said in a recent press release. “As the deadline comes, we expect there to be more demand to get in compliance. We encourage citizens to act now on getting their Real ID.”
The U.S. Congress passed the REAL ID Act of 2005 in response to the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation to standardize government-issued identifications, such as driver’s licenses. The deadline for when the card was to take effect has been delayed several times over the years, most recently because of the COVID-19 pandemic and from DMV backlogs caused by those delays.
Here’s what you need to know about obtaining a South Carolina REAL ID before the deadline:
What do I need to apply for a REAL ID in SC?
To apply for a South Carolina REAL ID, take the following steps:
Have proof of identification
According to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, you must have original or government-issued copies of all documents proving identity, such as a birth certificate or unexpired U.S. Passport, two proofs of your current physical South Carolina address, your social security number, and proof of legal name changes, if applicable. For a full list of accepted documents, click here.
Purchasing SC Real ID
- Most regular South Carolina licenses cost $25, whether it is a REAL ID marked with a gold star or a card that says “not for federal identification.” Identification cards are free for people who are 17 years old or older, regardless of whether the ID card is REAL ID or not. ID cards for those 16 years old or younger cost $15.
- South Carolinians who have received their first license since November 2010 should check to see if they’re eligible to purchase a REAL ID online at home. To see if you’re eligible for online purchase, click here.
- If you are not eligible for online purchase, bring the relevant documents and visit a SCDMV branch. To find your nearest branch, click here.
Do you have to get a REAL ID in SC?
“If you do not think you have a need to fly, enter a federal building, or visit a military installation, you do not need a REAL ID,” the SCDMV states.
Regardless of having a REAL ID, you’ll still need an unexpired passport to fly internationally.
You also do not need a REAL ID to do any of the following:
- Drive
- Vote
- Apply for or receive federal benefits
- Enter a federal building that does not require ID, like a post office
- Access a hospital
