As of Monday, you now have just 20 days to get a REAL ID before Raleigh-Durham International Airport starts fining travelers without one.
People are lining up outside of DMVs like this one in Raleigh to get a REAL ID.
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About 58 percent of licensed drivers in the state have one, if your ID has a star in the top right corner, you’re one of them.
First, know that you don’t need a REAL ID to be out on the roads and a regular license is just fine for driving. However, if you have a flight coming up, you’ll need one or an accepted alternative like a passport.
If you don’t have a REAL ID, there are two ways to get it through the DMV: Walk in or book an appointment.
Every driver's license office now serves walk-in customers from open to close, or until the capacity for that location has been reached.
Here’s some 5 On Your Side advice, offices outside of metro areas like the Triangle and Charlotte have less foot traffic so if you’re willing to make the drive to a more rural area it’s probably worth it.
The DMV still prioritizes appointments, which can be hard to find. My best advice to you here is to check the website just after midnight, that’s when new appointments are released usually seven days out.
5 On Your Side has done a lot of research on when's the best time for walk-in service. We’ve found Tuesday through Thursday during the middle of the month tend to be your best bet, and avoid showing up during peak lunchtime hours.
