Home Top Stories REAL ID Deadline Approaching for Berkeley County Residents

REAL ID Deadline Approaching for Berkeley County Residents

Berkeley County residents who plan to fly domestically, visit a military base or federal building on May 7 or later needs to ensure that they have a plan for displaying a federally recognized ID card.

By
The Berkeley Observer
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May 7 is the U.S. government’s Real ID implementation date, meaning travelers will be required to present a driver’s license or ID card that includes the Real ID gold star any time they want to board an airplane or enter a federal building or military installation. (Image by Joshua Woroniecki from Pixabay)

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – The deadline for Berkeley County residents to get their REAL ID is quickly approaching. Without it, you can kiss easy flights and federal building access goodbye.

Starting Wednesday, May 7, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) won’t accept your regular South Carolina driver’s license at airport checkpoints or secure federal sites.

Although South Carolina has been issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and ID cards since 2018, more than one million Palmetto State residents still do not possess one, according to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.

What Is a REAL ID?

A gold star on your license or ID designates it as a REAL ID. If your license or ID does not have a gold star, it will have a message stating “Not for Federal Identification” and is not compliant with REAL ID. (CREDIT: South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles)

A REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification that features a gold star in the top right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, this ID will be required for:

  • Boarding domestic commercial flights
  • Entering secure federal buildings
  • Visiting military installations

While a REAL ID is not mandatory for driving, voting, or accessing hospitals, it will be essential for the activities listed above. Alternative forms of identification, such as a valid U.S. passport or military ID, will also be accepted.

How to Obtain a REAL ID in Berkeley County

Residents can apply for a REAL ID at local South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) offices. To obtain a REAL ID, you will need to provide:

  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or unexpired U.S. passport)
  • Proof of Social Security number
  • Two proofs of current South Carolina residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
  • Legal documents for any name changes (e.g., marriage certificate)

Note: Photocopies or scanned documents are not accepted.

Local SCDMV Offices

Berkeley County residents can visit the Moncks Corner DMV to get a REAL ID. It’s located at 108-B Library Street, next to the Berkeley County government building. This is the only DMV branch in Berkeley County. Hours of operation are from Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m –5 p.m. If you prefer to visit a different DMV location, click here for other options and to view wait times.

Online Application

If you’ve obtained your first South Carolina license since November 2010 and your required documents are already on file with the SCDMV, you may be eligible to purchase a REAL ID online. To check your eligibility, visit the SCDMV’s online services page.

Cost of REAL ID

  • Driver’s License (REAL ID or standard): $25 (valid for a maximum of eight years)
  • Identification Card (17 years or older): Free
  • Identification Card (16 years or younger): $15

Avoid Last-Minute Rush

As the deadline approaches, DMV offices are expected to experience increased demand, leading to longer wait times. Applying now can help you avoid delays and ensure you’re ready for upcoming travel or access needs.

“People will need to come with some patience as we take care of everyone we can around the deadline,” said Kevin Shwedo, SCDMV executive director.

For more information and to begin your application process, visit the South Carolina DMV REAL ID page.

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