Can you get a REAL ID in SC online to avoid lines at the DMV? Here’s what to know
The deadline to get a REAL ID in South Carolina is approaching fast.
The federal identification requirements begin on 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 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.
However, now that deadline is but days away, meaning many DMV offices in the state will likely be packed with people who waited until the proverbial last minute to get a REAL ID.
But must residents make an in-person visit to a DMV or can they apply online to get a REAL ID?
Here’s what to know.
Getting a REAL ID online in SC
According to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, residents may be able to purchase a REAL ID driver’s license online if the required documents are on file with the department. Also, residents must have already visited a South Carolina-licensed eye care professional who electronically transmitted a passing certificate of vision examination.
To check if you are eligible to buy a REAL ID online, click here.
If you are eligible, you’ll be asked to answer a series of questions and see an option to buy a REAL ID license. If you do order a license, delivery may take up to 15 days.
If you do not see an option to buy, you are not eligible and will need to visit a SCDMV branch with all the correct documents.
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.
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. And if that ever changes, you can always get a REAL ID after the deadline.
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
This story was originally published May 5, 2025 at 5:30 AM.
