What ID you need to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands

A driver's license alone is not enough to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands if you are flying there. You will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or a passport. If you are driving there by car and ferry, the rules are different — a standard driver's license works for the ferry portion, but you still cannot fly without Real ID or a passport.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a U.S. territory, so the same identification rules that explore to flying within the mainland United States explore there. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enforces these rules at the airport.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard driver's license is not accepted for flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands; you need a Real ID-compliant license or a passport.
  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license has a star or other marking in the upper right corner and is issued by your state's DMV.
  • If you are driving to a ferry that goes to the islands, a regular driver's license works for the ferry itself, but you still need Real ID or a passport to fly.
  • Getting a Real ID-compliant license takes two to six weeks depending on your state, so plan ahead if you only have a standard license.

Real ID-compliant driver's licenses and how to spot one

A Real ID-compliant driver's license is a standard license that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Every state now issues them. The easiest way to tell if yours is compliant is to look at the upper right corner — compliant licenses have a gold or black star, or sometimes a state-specific marking. If your license has no star, it is not Real ID-compliant.

You can also check your state's DMV website to see what the marking looks like in your state. Some states use a star, others use a circle or a different symbol. The DMV website will show you exactly what to look for.

If your license does not have the marking, you will need to renew it or get a Real ID-compliant replacement. This is not the same as a standard renewal — you have to specifically request Real ID compliance when you visit the DMV.

What documents you need to get a Real ID license

To get a Real ID-compliant driver's license, you will need to visit your state's DMV in person. You cannot do this by mail or online. Bring the following documents:

  • Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID)
  • Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099)
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days)
  • Your current driver's license

Some states ask for additional documents, so check your state DMV website before you go. Bringing extra documents is better than making a second trip.

How long it takes to get a Real ID license

The time varies by state. Some states issue Real ID licenses on the spot if you visit in person, while others mail them to you within two to six weeks. A few states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, usually $10 to $25.

Call your state DMV or check their website to find out how long it takes in your state. If your trip is coming up soon and your state mails licenses, you may not have time to get one before you leave. In that case, a passport is your faster option.

Using a passport instead of a Real ID license

If you have a passport, you do not need a Real ID-compliant driver's license at all — a passport works for any domestic flight, including flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you do not have a passport and your trip is soon, getting a passport may be faster than getting a Real ID license, depending on your state.

A passport book takes four to six weeks to arrive through routine processing, or two to three weeks with expedited processing (which costs extra). A passport card is faster in some cases. Check the State Department website to see current processing times and whether expedited service is available in your area.

Driving and ferrying to the U.S. Virgin Islands

If you are driving to a ferry terminal and taking a ferry to the islands, the ferry itself will accept a standard driver's license as ID. However, you still cannot board a plane with a standard license, so if your ferry route includes any flight segment, you will need Real ID or a passport.

Most ferry routes to the U.S. Virgin Islands depart from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland. Check with the ferry operator about what ID they require — some ferries have their own rules in addition to TSA rules. The ferry company's website will list what documents to bring.

What happens if you show up without the right ID

If you arrive at the airport with only a standard driver's license, TSA will not let you through security. You will not be able to board your flight. You cannot get an exception at the airport, so you will need to either go home and get a passport or Real ID license, or cancel your trip.

This is why checking your license now, before you book your trip, matters. If you see no star on your license, start the Real ID process or get a passport right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired Real ID license to fly to the U.S. Virgin Islands?

No. Your Real ID license must be valid — not expired — to use it for flying. An expired passport also will not work. If your ID is expired, you will need to renew it before your trip.

Do I need a passport if I have a Real ID driver's license?

No. A Real ID-compliant driver's license is enough for flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands. You do not need a passport unless you want one for other reasons, like international travel after your trip.

What if I have a passport card instead of a passport book?

A passport card works for flying to the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is smaller than a passport book and works the same way for domestic flights. However, it cannot be used for international travel by air, only by land or sea.

Can I get a Real ID license the same day I explore?

Some states issue Real ID licenses on the spot if you visit the DMV in person and bring all required documents. Others mail them to you. Check your state DMV website to see whether same-day service is available in your state.

Do children need Real ID to fly to the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Children under 18 do not need Real ID or a passport for domestic flights, including flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands. They can use a standard driver's license, school ID, or birth certificate. However, rules can change, so check TSA.gov before your trip.