Make sure you have your REAL ID before the deadline to travel securely.
Attention South Carolinians! The deadline to obtain a REAL ID is May 7, 2025. Without it, you may face issues when flying or entering federal buildings. A REAL ID is needed for air travel from Columbia Metropolitan Airport, but it’s not necessary for every day activities like driving or voting. If you don’t have a REAL ID, be sure to check and get one before the deadline. For details on how to obtain this essential ID, read on!
Hey there, folks in South Carolina! If you’re planning to travel, especially via air, it’s time to mark your calendars! The deadline to obtain a REAL ID in South Carolina is fast approaching, with the final date set for May 7, 2025. This means that if you don’t have one by then, you might face some hiccups when trying to fly, enter federal buildings, or even access military bases. So, what’s all the fuss about a REAL ID? Let me break it down for you.
A REAL ID is essentially a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets federal requirements. It will have a little gold star in the upper right corner, indicating it’s REAL ID-compliant. If your ID lacks this star, it won’t be accepted for federal identification purposes after the deadline.
If you’re one of those adventurous travelers flying out of Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), you really need to pay attention. Starting on May 7, you’ll be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to clear security. That’s right, without this essential ID, you will not be allowed through the CAE security checkpoint. Imagine arriving at the airport, ready for your vacation, only to be turned away at security—yikes!
Now, it’s good to know that a REAL ID isn’t necessary for everything. You don’t need one for driving, voting, or applying for benefits in the state. However, if you’re traveling, especially by air, it’ll be crucial to ensure you’re compliant.
If you find yourself without a REAL ID, don’t worry! There are other acceptable forms of identification out there. However, these alternatives aren’t specified, so it’s wise to do some research before you fly. And let’s not forget, children under the age of 18 won’t need to show identification when flying domestically.
Are you wondering how you can get your hands on a REAL ID? It’s simple! Just pop over to your local South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) branch. You’ll need to bring specific documentation to obtain your REAL ID, but guess what? You don’t even have to present a physical Social Security card anymore. Your Social Security number will now be electronically verified, making things just a bit easier.
Now let’s talk money! The cost of obtaining a REAL ID in South Carolina is a reasonable $25. If you’re getting one for your child aged 5 to 16, it’ll set you back $15. Keep in mind that these REAL IDs expire after a period of eight years, just like all licenses issued in South Carolina since October 1, 2017. So, stick a reminder on your phone to check back in eight years!
As of now, about 2.7 million out of 4.5 million IDs issued by the SCDMV are REAL ID-compliant. This means there’s still work to do for many South Carolinians. If you’re unsure whether your ID is compliant, just check for that shiny gold star. If it states “Not for Federal Identification,” it’s time to make a visit to the DMV ASAP!
So, there you have it! With the REAL ID deadline approaching, now’s the time to ensure you have your documentation in order. Don’t wait until the last minute—get your REAL ID and travel with peace of mind. Safe travels, South Carolina!
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