Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card will be required to board domestic flights within the United States. This requirement, established by the REAL ID Act of 2005, aims to enhance security standards for state-issued identification documents.
Obtaining a REAL ID in South Carolina
The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) provides several options for obtaining a REAL ID:
- In-person: Visit an SCDMV branch with the necessary documentation and purchase a REAL ID.
- Online renewal: If eligible, you can renew your license and obtain a REAL ID online.
Required Documentation
To obtain a REAL ID, you must provide the following original documents to the SCDMV:
- Proof of Identity (e.g., government-issued birth certificate or unexpired US passport)
- Proof of Legal Name (e.g., marriage license, divorce decree, US passport)
- Two proofs of current, physical South Carolina address (e.g., utility bill, pay stub)
- Proof of Social Security Number
A complete list of accepted documents can be found on the SCDMV website.
Cost
A REAL ID costs $25, the same as a standard driver’s license. Identification cards are free for individuals 17 and older and $15 for those 16 and under.
Optional for Non-flying Activities
Obtaining a REAL ID is optional if you do not plan to fly domestically or visit federal facilities and military installations. Alternative forms of identification, such as a valid US passport or military ID, are acceptable for these purposes.
REAL ID Expiration
REAL ID licenses are valid for eight years.
More Information
For more information on obtaining a REAL ID in South Carolina, visit the SCDMV website.
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