CHARLOTTE, N.C. — By May 7, Americans will be required to have a REAL ID.
So WCNC Charlotte wanted to look at some common questions about what happens if you're unable to get one in time.
With the DMV delays and trouble getting in for an appointment, many people are wondering what will happen if they don't get a REAL ID in time.
OUR SOURCES
THE QUESTION
Do you need a REAL ID in order to fly?
THE ANSWER
According to The Department of Homeland Security, travelers who do not present a REAL ID by May 7 will not be allowed through security and will need another form of ID.
According to the TSA, the following ID alternatives will work:
- A passport.
- A photo ID issued by a federal organization.
- A permanent resident card.
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
THE QUESTION
If you get pulled over, and you don't have a REAL ID and only a regular driver's license, will you get a ticket?
WHAT WE FOUND
Via email, the DMV said REAL IDs are for federal purposes, like clearing TSA to board a plane or visiting a federal, military or nuclear facility,
You don't need a REAL ID just to drive. So, we can verify that no, you will not get a ticket if you don't have a REAL ID, but you still need a valid license to drive.
THE QUESTION
Do you still need a passport if you have a REAL ID and are traveling internationally?
THE ANSWER
According to Homeland Security, if you are traveling internationally, you will still need your passport.
If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one of those documents, so we can verify that yes, you need your passport if you are traveling internationally.
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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