A regular driver's license alone is not enough to fly domestically in the United States

You can board a domestic flight with a regular driver's license, but only if it is a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. Starting in May 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all passengers to show either a REAL ID-compliant license, a passport, a military ID, or another approved form of identification at airport security checkpoints. A standard driver's license that does not meet REAL ID standards will not be accepted.

The difference between a REAL ID license and a regular one is not always obvious to look at. Your state's DMV added security features to meet federal standards, and your license may have a star or other marking in the upper right corner to show it is compliant. If your license does not have this marking, you will need to bring a passport or other approved ID instead.

Key Takeaways

  • A REAL ID-compliant driver's license is one of several documents the TSA accepts for domestic flights; a non-compliant license is not.
  • Most states mark REAL ID licenses with a star or similar symbol, usually in the upper right corner of the card.
  • If your license is not REAL ID-compliant, you can still fly with a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID.
  • You can check your state's DMV website to learn whether your current license meets REAL ID standards or to request a compliant one.

How to tell if your driver's license is REAL ID-compliant

The easiest way is to look at your license. Most states place a gold or black star, a circle, or another symbol in the upper right corner of REAL ID licenses. Not all states use the same marking, so check your state's DMV website to confirm what symbol to look for. Some states use different colors or shapes, and a few use text instead of a symbol.

If your license does not have the marking, it is not REAL ID-compliant. You can still use it for other purposes — driving, opening a bank account, proving your age — but the TSA will not accept it at airport security. You will need to bring an alternative form of ID to fly.

What to do if your license is not REAL ID-compliant

Contact your state's DMV to request a REAL ID-compliant license. The process varies by state, but most require you to visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Some states charge a fee for a REAL ID license, while others issue it at no extra cost when you renew.

Processing times also vary. Some states issue REAL ID licenses within days; others take several weeks. If you have a flight coming up and your license is not compliant, plan to bring a passport, passport card, or another accepted ID instead of waiting for the new license to arrive.

Other documents the TSA accepts at airport security

You do not have to use a driver's license at all. The TSA accepts several forms of identification for domestic flights:

  • U.S. passport or passport card
  • Military ID (active duty, retired, or reserve)
  • Tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
  • Enhanced driver's license (available in some states)
  • Permanent resident card (green card)
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner credential
  • Transportation worker identification credential (TWIC)

A passport is the most widely recognized form of ID and works for both domestic and international flights. If you travel frequently or plan to fly internationally, a passport may be more convenient than updating your driver's license. Passports are issued by the U.S. State Department and take several weeks to arrive, so plan ahead if you need one.

International flights and driver's licenses

A driver's license — even a REAL ID-compliant one — is not enough for international travel. You must have a valid passport to leave the United States and enter another country. Some countries also require a visa in addition to your passport, depending on your citizenship and destination.

If you are planning an international flight, explore for a passport well in advance. Standard processing takes several weeks, and expedited processing takes longer during peak travel seasons. Check the State Department's website for current processing times and fees before you explore.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at airport security without a REAL ID-compliant license or other accepted form of identification, the TSA can conduct additional screening. This may include asking security questions to verify your identity, checking your name against watch lists, or requiring a companion to vouch for you. The process takes extra time and may cause you to miss your flight.

In some cases, the TSA may refuse to let you through security at all. The best approach is to check your ID before you leave for the airport. If you are unsure whether your license is compliant, bring a passport or call the TSA's customer service line at 855-787-2227 to ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a REAL ID license if I have a passport?

No. A passport is accepted at airport security for domestic flights, so you do not need a REAL ID license if you have one. However, a driver's license is more convenient for everyday use, so many people get both.

Can I fly with an expired REAL ID license?

No. The TSA requires a current, valid ID. An expired license will not be accepted, even if it is REAL ID-compliant. You will need to renew it before you fly, or bring a different form of ID.

What if I lost my ID and my flight is tomorrow?

Bring a passport if you have one. If you do not have a passport or other accepted ID, contact the TSA at 855-787-2227 before you go to the airport. They can tell you what options are available and what documents you may need to bring for additional screening.

Do I need a REAL ID license to fly within my state?

No. The REAL ID requirement applies to all domestic flights, regardless of whether you are flying within your state or to another state. The TSA enforces the same rules at every airport.