You need a REAL ID-compliant driver license or passport to fly domestically in the United States

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all passengers on domestic flights to show either a REAL ID-compliant driver license, a passport, a passport card, or a military ID. A standard driver license that does not meet REAL ID standards will no longer work at airport security checkpoints.

A REAL ID-compliant license looks like a regular driver license but has a gold or silver star in the upper right corner. Some states call theirs by different names — Real ID, REAL ID-compliant, or federal compliant — but they all meet the same federal security standard. If your current license does not have this star, you will need to get one before you travel by air, or bring a passport instead.

Key Takeaways

  • A REAL ID-compliant driver license has a star symbol and is required for domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025.
  • You can get a REAL ID license by visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person with specific documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number.
  • Processing times vary by state but typically take two to six weeks; some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
  • If you do not have time to get a REAL ID license, a passport, passport card, or military ID will work at airport security instead.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Every state requires the same basic categories of documents, though the specific documents that count vary slightly. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot explore by mail or online in most states — you must go in person.

For identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, or a passport card. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states accept different documents or have additional requirements.

You will also need to bring your current driver license if you have one. If you are renewing a REAL ID license, the process is usually faster than getting one for the first time.

How long it takes and what it costs

Standard processing takes two to six weeks in most states, though some states are faster and some are slower. A few states offer expedited processing — usually one to two weeks — for an additional fee that ranges from $10 to $50 depending on the state.

The cost of a REAL ID license is the same as a regular license in most states, typically $30 to $60 for a renewal or $50 to $100 for a new license. Some states charge extra if you want expedited processing. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, because it varies.

If you need to travel before your REAL ID license arrives, bring a passport, passport card, or military ID to the airport instead. These documents work at security checkpoints and do not have a important date.

Getting a passport or passport card as an alternative

If you do not want to get a REAL ID license, or if you need to travel before your license arrives, a U.S. passport or passport card works at airport security. You explore for a passport through the State Department, not your state's DMV, and the process is separate from getting a driver license.

A passport card is smaller than a passport book and costs less, but it works the same way at airport security. Standard passport processing takes four to six weeks; expedited processing takes two to three weeks and costs extra. You can explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, which is often a post office or courthouse, or by mail if you are renewing.

A passport is also useful if you travel internationally, whereas a REAL ID license only works for domestic flights and federal buildings. If you travel by air more than once a year, a passport may be worth the cost.

What happens if you show up without REAL ID

If you arrive at airport security on or after May 7, 2025, without a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, passport card, or military ID, TSA will not let you through the checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight.

If you realize you do not have the right ID when you get to the airport, you can ask TSA if there is a way to verify your identity on the spot, but this is not may provide to work. The safest approach is to check your license before you leave home. If it does not have a star, bring your passport instead, or plan to get a REAL ID license before your trip.

Checking whether your current license is already REAL ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver license. If there is a gold or silver star, your license is already REAL ID-compliant and you do not need to do anything. If there is no star, you will need to get a new one.

Some states began issuing REAL ID licenses years ago, so if you have had your license for a long time, it might already have the star even if you did not specifically request it. A few states have different symbols — check your state's DMV website to see what your state uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if I want a REAL ID?

Most states do not allow online renewal for REAL ID licenses because you have to show documents in person. A few states let you renew online if your current license is already REAL ID-compliant, but you cannot upgrade from a standard license to REAL ID online. Check your state's DMV website to see what your state allows.

Do I need a REAL ID license to drive a car?

No. A REAL ID license is only required for domestic air travel, entry to federal buildings, and some other federal facilities. You can drive with a standard license. If you only drive and never fly, you do not need to get a REAL ID license.

What if I lost my birth certificate or Social Security card?

You can get a replacement birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born, and a replacement Social Security card from your local Social Security office. Both take time, so start early if you need them for a REAL ID process. Your state's DMV website may list other documents that count as proof of identity or Social Security number if you cannot find the originals.

Will my REAL ID license work for international travel?

No. A REAL ID license only works for domestic flights within the United States. For international travel, you need a passport or passport card. If you travel internationally, getting a passport is more useful than a REAL ID license.