You can fly domestically within the United States using a valid driver's license as your ID

A driver's license is one of the most common forms of identification accepted at airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts driver's licenses from all 50 states, as well as enhanced driver's licenses and REAL ID-compliant licenses. You do not need a passport to fly within the country — your driver's license alone is sufficient, as long as it is current and not expired.

The key requirement is that your license must be valid and match the name on your airline ticket. If your name has changed since you got your license — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you will need to bring documentation of that change along with your license. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change will help resolve any mismatch at security.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid, unexpired driver's license from any U.S. state is accepted as primary identification for domestic flights.
  • Your name on the license must match the name on your airline ticket, or you should bring proof of a legal name change.
  • If your license is expired, you will need a different form of ID, such as a passport, passport card, or military ID.
  • International flights require a passport or passport card, not a driver's license, regardless of how valid it is.
  • Arriving at the airport earlier than usual can help if there is any question about your identification.

What happens if your driver's license is expired

An expired driver's license will not be accepted at TSA security. The TSA requires that your ID be valid and current. If your license has expired, you will need to bring a different form of identification instead.

Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, state ID card, or tribal ID. A passport card is often the fastest option if you do not have a full passport — it costs less and takes less time to obtain than a passport book. If you have none of these, you can still fly, but you will go through additional screening at the airport, which takes longer and may involve more questions about your identity and travel plans.

REAL ID requirements and what they mean for your license

Starting in May 2025, the TSA will require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID for all domestic flights. A REAL ID license has a star or other marking in the upper right corner of the card. Most states have already issued REAL ID licenses as standard, but some states still issue both REAL ID and non-compliant licenses depending on what you request.

If your current license is not REAL ID-compliant, you can still fly domestically until May 2025 using your regular license. After that date, you will need either a REAL ID license, a passport, a passport card, or military ID. You can check your state's DMV website to see whether your license is REAL ID-compliant, or look for the star on the card itself. Getting a REAL ID license usually requires visiting your state's DMV in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

Flying internationally with a driver's license

A driver's license is not accepted for international flights under any circumstances. If you are flying outside the United States, you must have a valid U.S. passport or passport card. Some countries also require a visa in addition to your passport, depending on your citizenship and destination.

A passport book takes four to six weeks to obtain through the State Department if you explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, or up to 11 weeks if you explore by mail. A passport card, which is smaller and less expensive, takes the same amount of time but is valid only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean — not for air travel to other countries. If you need to fly internationally soon, check your state's passport office for expedited processing options, which may cost extra but can reduce the wait time.

Name mismatches between your license and your ticket

Your name on your driver's license must match the name on your airline ticket. If they do not match, you may be stopped at security or at the gate. The most common reason for a mismatch is a recent legal name change that you have not yet updated on your license.

If your name has changed, bring the legal document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Show this document along with your license to the TSA officer at security. You should also contact your airline before you go to the airport to let them know about the name mismatch and ask whether they need any additional documentation. Some airlines will update your ticket at no charge if you show proof of the name change, while others may require you to cancel and rebook under the correct name.

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

Bring your driver's license and your airline boarding pass or confirmation number. You can show your boarding pass on your phone or print it out — either works. If you have any concerns about your ID, bring additional documents that support your identity, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or recent utility bill with your name and address.

If your name does not match your license, bring the legal document proving the change. If your license is damaged, faded, or hard to read, bring a backup form of ID if you have one. Arriving at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight gives you time to resolve any ID questions without missing your flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired driver's license if I have nothing else?

No, an expired license will not be accepted as primary ID. However, you can still fly — you will straightforward go through additional screening at security, which takes longer. You will need to answer questions about your identity and travel plans. Bringing other documents with your name on them, like a birth certificate or utility bill, can help speed up the process.

What if my driver's license has a different name than my ticket?

Contact your airline before you go to the airport and explain the situation. Bring the legal document proving your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The airline may update your ticket for free, or you may need to cancel and rebook. Showing the document to the TSA officer at security will help you get through that checkpoint.

Do I need a REAL ID license right now to fly?

Not until May 2025. Until then, any valid driver's license is accepted. After May 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, passport card, or military ID. Check your state's DMV website to see if your current license is REAL ID-compliant, or look for the star in the upper right corner of the card.

Can I use my driver's license to fly to Canada or Mexico?

No. You need a passport or passport card for any international flight, including to Canada and Mexico. A passport card is valid for land and sea travel to those countries, but for air travel you need a full passport book. A passport card does not work for flights to any other country.