You need a Real ID–compliant driver's license or passport to fly domestically in the U.S. as of May 2025
The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, set security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began enforcing Real ID requirements for domestic flights on May 7, 2025. If your driver's license does not meet Real ID standards, you cannot use it alone to board a domestic flight — you will need a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federally approved document instead.
Real ID is not a separate card you obtain. It is a designation on your existing driver's license or state ID that shows you have met federal security standards. Most states now issue Real ID–compliant licenses by default, but some still require you to request one or bring specific documents to get it.
Key Takeaways
- A Real ID–compliant driver's license, passport, or military ID is required for all domestic flights; a standard driver's license alone is no longer accepted.
- You can check whether your current license is Real ID–compliant by looking for a star symbol in the upper right corner of the card.
- If your license is not Real ID–compliant, you can renew it in person at your state's DMV with proof of citizenship, identity, and residency.
- International flights require a passport regardless of Real ID status, so Real ID does not change requirements for travel outside the U.S.
- The TSA accepts a limited list of documents at security checkpoints; a standard driver's license is no longer on that list for domestic flights.
How to tell if your driver's license is Real ID–compliant
The easiest way to check is to look at your physical license. Real ID–compliant licenses and IDs display a gold or black star in the upper right corner of the card. If your license has that star, it meets Real ID standards and you can use it to fly domestically.
If your license does not have a star, it is not Real ID–compliant. You can still use it for other purposes — driving, entering federal buildings, boarding trains — but not for domestic air travel. You will need to bring a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federally approved document to the airport instead.
You can also contact your state's DMV directly to confirm your license status. Most state DMV websites have a section explaining Real ID and how to check your card.
How to get a Real ID–compliant driver's license
The process varies slightly by state, but the general steps are the same. You must visit your state's DMV in person — you cannot renew a Real ID license online or by mail. Bring proof of your identity (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of citizenship (U.S. passport, birth certificate, or certificate of citizenship), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
Some states require you to specifically request a Real ID license when you renew; others issue them automatically. A few states still issue standard licenses by default and require you to opt in. Check your state DMV's website before you go to know which documents you need and whether you must request Real ID explicitly.
The fee for a Real ID license is typically the same as a standard license renewal, though some states charge a small additional fee. Processing time ranges from same-day issuance to several weeks depending on your state. If you need a license quickly, ask the DMV whether they offer expedited processing.
What documents the TSA accepts at security checkpoints
The TSA maintains a list of documents that satisfy the Real ID requirement for domestic flights. These include a Real ID–compliant driver's license or state ID, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a permanent resident card (green card), a tribal ID, a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential, and a U.S. military dependent ID.
A standard (non–Real ID) driver's license is no longer on this list for domestic flights. If you arrive at security with only a standard license, TSA officers will not allow you to proceed to your gate. You will need to return home or to your hotel to retrieve an acceptable document, which may cause you to miss your flight.
International flights have different requirements. You must bring a valid passport for any flight leaving the United States, regardless of Real ID status.
Real ID requirements for different types of travelers
Most adult passengers follow the same rules: bring a Real ID–compliant license or other federally approved document. Children under 18 do not need a Real ID or passport for domestic flights — they can fly with just a standard ID or even without one if traveling with an adult. However, some airlines may have their own policies, so check with your carrier before you travel.
Military personnel and their dependents can use military IDs instead of a Real ID license. Veterans can use a VA health identification card if it has a photo. If you hold a permanent resident card (green card), that satisfies the Real ID requirement. Tribal members can use a tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe.
If you do not have a passport and cannot obtain a Real ID license in time for your flight, you have limited options. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Otherwise, you will need to reschedule your flight or use a passport if you have one.
What happens if you arrive at the airport without a Real ID–compliant document
If you reach the TSA security checkpoint with only a standard driver's license, the officer will explain that it does not meet Real ID standards and will not allow you to proceed. You cannot board your flight without returning to retrieve an acceptable document. This means missing your flight and potentially losing your ticket.
Some travelers have successfully appealed to airlines to rebook them on a later flight at no charge, but this is at the airline's discretion. The TSA does not have authority to override the requirement or issue exceptions. Plan ahead and verify your license status before you travel.
If you are traveling soon and your license is not Real ID–compliant, contact your state DMV when ready to ask about expedited renewal. If that is not possible, bring a passport or other federally approved document instead.
Real ID and international travel
Real ID does not affect international travel. You must bring a valid U.S. passport for any flight departing the United States, regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID–compliant. A Real ID license alone is not sufficient for international flights.
If you are planning to travel outside the U.S., explore for a passport through your state's passport acceptance facility or the U.S. Department of State. Passport processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks for routine service and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service. If you need a passport quickly, some facilities offer same-day or next-day service for an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly domestically with a passport instead of a Real ID license?
Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card satisfies the Real ID requirement for domestic flights. If you have a passport and your driver's license is not Real ID–compliant, you can bring your passport to the airport instead. This is a common option for travelers who do not want to renew their license.
Do I need to renew my license early to get Real ID, or can I wait until my current license expires?
You can wait until your license expires to renew it as a Real ID license. However, if you plan to fly before your expiration date and your current license is not Real ID–compliant, you will need to renew early or bring a passport. Early renewal is available in all states, though some charge an additional fee.
What if my state has not started issuing Real ID licenses yet?
All U.S. states and territories now issue Real ID–compliant licenses. However, some states still issue standard licenses by default and require you to request Real ID explicitly. Check your state DMV's website to confirm the process in your state.
Can I use a Real ID license to enter federal buildings or military bases?
Yes. Real ID licenses meet the security standards required for entry to federal buildings and military installations. A standard driver's license does not. If you need to enter a federal facility regularly, a Real ID license is useful for that purpose as well as for flying.
What if I lost my driver's license and need to fly soon?
Contact your state DMV to report the loss and request a replacement. If you have a passport, bring that to the airport instead. If you do not have a passport and cannot get a replacement license in time, you will not be able to fly domestically unless you reschedule your trip.