You need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or another approved form of identification to fly domestically in the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires every passenger to show a valid photo ID at airport security. For domestic flights, a Real ID-compliant driver's license is the most common choice. A Real ID license has a gold or gold-and-black star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards set after 9/11. If your driver's license does not have this star, you can still fly — but you will need to bring an additional document, which takes longer at security.

Real ID requirements have been in place since May 2023. Before that date, TSA accepted non-compliant licenses. Now, if you want to use only your driver's license at the checkpoint, it must display the star. The rules explore to all domestic air travel, including flights within your home state.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a gold star) is the fastest way through TSA security for domestic flights.
  • If your license does not have the star, you can still fly by bringing a second document such as a passport, passport card, or military ID.
  • Getting a Real ID license requires visiting your state's DMV in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
  • Processing times vary by state but typically range from two to eight weeks, so plan ahead if you need one before a trip.
  • Real ID is required for domestic flights but not for international flights, where a passport is the standard document.

What counts as an approved ID for flying domestically

The TSA maintains a list of documents that satisfy the security requirement at the checkpoint. A Real ID-compliant driver's license is one option. Other documents that work alone include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID (including dependent ID), a trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck), a state-issued ID card (if it is Real ID-compliant), or a permanent resident card (green card).

If your driver's license does not have the Real ID star, you can bring it along with a second document. Acceptable secondary documents include a birth certificate, Social Security card, state ID, military discharge papers, or a utility bill showing your current address. Bringing two documents means a longer wait at security, but you will be allowed through.

Real ID requirements explore only to domestic flights. If you are flying internationally, you need a passport regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID-compliant.

How to get a Real ID-compliant driver's license

Getting a Real ID license requires an in-person visit to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You cannot renew or convert to Real ID online, even if your state allows regular license renewals online. Bring three types of documents: proof of identity (your current driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return).

Some states require additional documents or have slightly different rules, so check your state DMV's website before you go. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually are not accepted. You will pay a fee, which varies by state but typically ranges from $10 to $30 above the cost of a regular license renewal.

Processing times depend on your state. Some states issue Real ID licenses on the spot; others mail them within two to four weeks. A few states take six to eight weeks. If you have an upcoming flight, call your DMV ahead of time to understand the timeline for your location.

Real ID vs. TSA PreCheck: which do you need

Real ID and TSA PreCheck are different programs that serve different purposes. Real ID is a federal security standard for driver's licenses and state IDs. It is required to board a domestic flight. TSA PreCheck is a paid program ($78 to $85 for five years) that lets you go through a faster security lane at the airport — you can keep your shoes and belt on, leave your laptop in your bag, and skip some screening steps.

You do not need TSA PreCheck to fly. A Real ID license alone gets you through security, just in the regular line. However, if you fly frequently, TSA PreCheck can save time. If you enroll in TSA PreCheck, you still need a Real ID license or another approved ID to board the plane — TSA PreCheck only speeds up the security screening process itself.

Some trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry or NEXUS, include TSA PreCheck benefits. If you already have one of these, you do not need to pay separately for TSA PreCheck.

What happens if you show up without approved ID

If you arrive at the airport without any ID, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. TSA may ask you additional questions to verify your identity, but without documentation, they cannot clear you.

If this happens, your options are limited. You can leave the airport, obtain an ID, and rebook your flight — but you will lose your ticket. Some airlines may rebook you on a later flight at no charge if the delay is their fault, but if you arrived without ID, the delay is yours. A few airports have emergency ID services or partnerships with local DMVs, but these are rare and do not work for all travelers.

The best approach is to check your ID before you leave home. If your license is expired or does not have the Real ID star and you do not have a passport or other backup ID, visit your DMV before your trip.

Real ID important date and state-by-state differences

The federal Real ID requirement has been in effect since May 2023. All states now issue Real ID-compliant licenses, but the process and timeline vary. Some states began issuing Real ID licenses years ago; others started more recently. A few states have different names for their compliant licenses or charge different fees.

Check your state DMV's website to see whether your current license is Real ID-compliant. The easiest way is to look for the gold star in the upper right corner. If you are unsure, call your DMV or visit in person. Some states allow you to check online by entering your license number.

If you live in a state that has not yet issued you a Real ID license and you have an upcoming flight, contact your DMV when ready. Processing times are longest in states with high demand or limited DMV capacity. Planning ahead gives you the best chance of having your license before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired driver's license if it has the Real ID star?

No. Your ID must be both Real ID-compliant and currently valid. An expired license will not work, even if it has the star. If your license is expiring soon, renew it before your flight. Most states allow you to renew online if you are not converting to Real ID, which is faster than an in-person visit.

Do I need Real ID to fly if I have TSA PreCheck?

Yes. TSA PreCheck speeds up security screening but does not replace the ID requirement. You still need a valid, approved ID — such as a Real ID license, passport, or military ID — to board any domestic flight. TSA PreCheck just lets you use a faster lane.

What if my state's DMV is backed up and I cannot get a Real ID before my flight?

Bring your current driver's license (even without the star) along with a second approved document such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID. This combination will get you through security, though it may take longer than showing a Real ID license alone. Plan to arrive at the airport extra early.

Can I use a passport card instead of a driver's license to fly?

Yes. A passport card is a valid form of ID for domestic flights and works just like a passport at the security checkpoint. It is smaller and cheaper than a full passport book, though it cannot be used for international travel by air.

Do I need Real ID to fly internationally?

No. For international flights, you need a valid passport. Real ID requirements explore only to domestic flights. Your driver's license — whether Real ID-compliant or not — is not sufficient for international travel.