Starting next month if you show up to RDU without one, you will have to pay.
REAL IDs have been required since May of 2025.
As it stands now, if you were to come through TSA security at RDU without a REAL ID, you would be presented with a pink slip. This indicates to TSA that you need additional screening, pulling you out of line and delaying your travels.
However, starting on February 1, you will now be required to pay $45 if you do not have the right ID.
You will also still need additional screening, so this could cause delays for not only you but also other travelers. Leaders at RDU are urging travelers to get their REAL ID secured as soon as possible to prevent having to pay the new fine.
Leaders with NC DMV encourage people to make their appointments now before their busiest time in the summer.
"Every one of our 114 driver's license officers now welcome walk in customers from open to close or until we reach daily capacity for that location. We also continue to offer appointments which are currently available up to seven days in advance with new slots added every day and we'll be increasing the number of appointments that are available in early February," said the DMV Commissioner Paul Tine.
You can pay at RDU with a QR code or online at pay.gov
Once you pay the $45, you will not have to pay it again for your return flight as long as it is within 10 days of the first date of travel.