Beginning May 7, the federal government will begin enforcing the REAL ID Act. First passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 attacks, the law sets new security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs to prevent fraud.
Under this new rule, the Transportation Security Administration will require REAL ID-compliant identification at airport security checkpoints. Federal agencies will also ask for REAL ID IDs for access to certain federal buildings.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation reminds residents that obtaining a REAL ID is optional. If you’re not planning to fly or access federal facilities, you can continue using your current ID.