Yes, you can fly with a driver's license as your only form of ID

A valid driver's license is one of the two forms of identification the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts at airport security checkpoints. You do not need a passport, a Real ID-compliant license, or any other document — a standard state driver's license works for domestic flights within the United States.

The TSA checks your ID to confirm you are the person holding the ticket. Your driver's license serves that purpose. The only restriction is that your license must be current (not expired) and issued by a U.S. state or territory.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid, unexpired driver's license is sufficient ID for TSA security screening on domestic flights.
  • Your license does not need to be Real ID-compliant to fly domestically, though Real ID will be required for federal buildings and some other purposes starting in 2025.
  • The TSA accepts either a driver's license or a state ID card; you do not need both.
  • If your license is expired, you will need a different form of ID, such as a passport or state ID card.
  • International flights require a passport regardless of whether you have a valid driver's license.

What counts as a valid driver's license at the airport

Your driver's license must be issued by a U.S. state or U.S. territory (including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). It must not be expired. The TSA agent will check the expiration date on the front or back of your license — if that date has passed, your license no longer counts as valid ID for security screening.

The license does not need to have a Real ID star or marking. Real ID is a separate federal standard that some states have adopted, but it is not required for domestic air travel. Your standard driver's license, even without Real ID compliance, will get you through TSA screening for flights within the United States.

What happens if your driver's license is expired

If your license has expired, the TSA will not accept it as your primary ID. You will need to show a different form of identification. The TSA maintains a list of acceptable documents that includes a state ID card, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID.

If you have no other form of ID with you, you can still go through security, but the TSA will conduct additional screening. This process takes longer and may include a pat-down and bag search. You will also need to answer questions to verify your identity. It is simpler to renew your license before your flight if you know it has expired.

Driver's license versus Real ID for flying

Real ID is a federal security standard that some states have adopted for their driver's licenses and ID cards. A Real ID license has a star or marking in the upper right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, Real ID will be required to enter federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants — but not for domestic air travel.

For flights within the United States, your standard driver's license works now and will continue to work after 2025. You do not need to upgrade to a Real ID license to fly domestically. If you plan to fly frequently or need to enter federal buildings for other reasons, you may want to get a Real ID license, but it is not necessary just for airport security.

Flying internationally with a driver's license

A driver's license is not sufficient for international flights. You must have a valid U.S. passport or passport card to leave the country and return. The TSA will check your ID at the security checkpoint, but the airline will also check your passport before you board.

If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you may be able to use a passport card instead of a full passport book. A passport card is smaller and costs less than a passport book, but it can only be used for land and sea travel to those specific countries — not for air travel. For any international flight, you need a full passport book.

What to bring to the airport besides your driver's license

Bring your driver's license and your airline ticket (digital or printed). The TSA agent will ask to see both. Have your license easily accessible — do not bury it in a bag or wallet that takes time to open. If you are checking bags, bring your airline confirmation number or boarding pass so you can check in at the counter.

If you are traveling with children, bring their IDs as well. Children under 18 do not always need ID for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult, but policies vary by airline. It is safer to bring ID for everyone. If you have a passport card or passport book, bring it too, even if you are flying domestically — it can serve as backup ID if your driver's license is questioned.

What to do if you lose your driver's license before your flight

If your license is lost or stolen, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to request a replacement. Many states can issue a temporary license or replacement same-day or within a few days. If you cannot get a replacement before your flight, bring another form of ID — a passport, passport card, state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID.

If you have no other ID available, you can still fly, but expect additional screening at security. Arrive at the airport earlier than usual. The TSA may ask you questions about your identity, your travel plans, and your personal information. They may also conduct a more thorough search of your bags and person. This process can add 30 minutes or more to your security screening time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID license to fly domestically after May 2025?

No. Real ID is required for federal buildings and military bases starting May 7, 2025, but not for domestic air travel. Your standard driver's license will continue to work for flights within the United States.

Can I fly with an expired driver's license?

No. The TSA will not accept an expired license as valid ID. You will need to bring a different form of identification, such as a passport or state ID card. If you have no other ID, you can still fly but will go through additional screening.

What if my driver's license is from a different country?

A foreign driver's license is not accepted by the TSA for domestic U.S. flights. You must have a U.S. passport, passport card, or other U.S.-issued ID. If you are a visitor to the United States, bring your passport.

Can I use a digital copy of my driver's license at the airport?

No. The TSA requires a physical ID document. A photo on your phone is not accepted. You must bring the actual plastic license card or another physical form of ID.

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

For domestic flights, either one works. For international flights, you must have a passport. Bringing both is fine and gives you backup ID if one is questioned.