A federal ID driver's license meets security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security
A federal ID driver's license (often called a "REAL ID" or "compliant" license) is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets security and identity-verification standards created by the federal government. The standards exist so that federal agencies — like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at airports — can trust that the ID they are looking at has been issued after a thorough background check and proof of identity.
The difference between a federal ID and a regular driver's license comes down to how the state verified your identity before issuing it. A federal ID requires you to show original documents proving your citizenship or legal residency, your Social Security number, and your date of birth. A regular license may not require all of those proofs, depending on your state's rules.
Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a federal ID driver's license or another form of federal ID to board a domestic airplane in the United States. A passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID also count. A regular driver's license will not work for air travel after that date, even for flights within the country.
Key Takeaways
- A federal ID driver's license is issued by your state but must meet security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security.
- You will need a federal ID to board domestic flights starting May 7, 2025, or you can use a passport, military ID, or tribal ID instead.
- To get a federal ID, you must show original documents proving citizenship or legal residency, your Social Security number, and your birth date.
- Most states mark federal ID licenses with a star or the words "REAL ID" on the front, so you can tell at a glance whether yours meets the standard.
What documents you need to bring to get a federal ID
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency will tell you the exact documents required, because rules vary by state. In general, you will need to bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease).
You will also need to show proof of citizenship or legal residency. For U.S. citizens, this is usually a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you will bring your green card or an unexpired employment authorization document (EAD). Some states accept other documents — your DMV website will list what counts in your state.
Bring originals, not copies. The DMV staff will examine them to confirm they are real. You cannot get a federal ID by mail in most states; you have to go in person to a DMV office.
How to know if your current license is already federal ID compliant
Look at the front of your driver's license. If it has a gold or black star in the upper right corner, or if it says "REAL ID" somewhere on the card, it already meets federal standards. You do not need to get a new one.
If your license does not have a star or the words "REAL ID," it is a regular license. You can still use it for driving and for most other purposes — you just cannot use it to board a domestic airplane after May 7, 2025. You will need to renew it as a federal ID, or bring a different form of federal ID (like a passport) when you fly.
The cost and timeline for getting a federal ID
The cost varies by state. Some states charge the same fee for a federal ID as for a regular license renewal. Others charge an additional fee, usually between $10 and $30. Check your state's DMV website for the exact price.
Processing time also varies. Some DMVs issue federal IDs on the spot if you bring all the right documents. Others take several weeks. If you need a federal ID before May 7, 2025, contact your DMV now to find out how long the wait is in your area. Many states are experiencing delays because so many people are explore at once.
What happens if you fly without a federal ID after May 7, 2025
If you try to board a domestic flight without a federal ID or another accepted form of federal ID, TSA will not let you through security. You will miss your flight. You cannot board with a regular driver's license, even if you have flown with it many times before.
The important date applies to all domestic flights, including short regional flights. It does not explore to international flights — those have always required a passport. If you are flying internationally, bring your passport instead.
Alternatives if you do not want to renew your license as a federal ID
You do not have to get a federal ID driver's license if you do not want to. You can use any of these documents to board a domestic flight: a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, a permanent resident card (green card), or an employment authorization document (EAD). You can also use a state ID card (not a driver's license) if it is federal ID compliant — most states offer both.
If you already have a passport or military ID, you can straightforward bring that when you fly. You do not need to get a federal ID license. The federal ID requirement exists so that TSA has a way to verify your identity; it does not matter which document you use, as long as it meets the security standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a federal ID to drive?
No. A regular driver's license is fine for driving. The federal ID requirement only applies to boarding domestic airplanes. You can drive with a regular license for as long as your state allows.
Can I renew my license online or by mail as a federal ID?
Most states require you to go to a DMV office in person to get a federal ID, because staff need to see your original documents. A few states may offer limited online renewal options, but you will still need to visit in person at some point. Check your state DMV website for what is available where you live.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can request a copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. The process takes a few weeks. If you cannot get a birth certificate, ask your DMV what other documents count as proof of citizenship or identity — some states accept alternatives like a passport or naturalization certificate.
Will my federal ID work for other things besides flying?
Yes. A federal ID driver's license works for anything a regular license works for — driving, proving your age, opening a bank account. It also works for entering federal buildings and military bases, which sometimes require federal ID. For most everyday purposes, there is no difference between a federal ID and a regular license.
What if I already have a passport — do I still need a federal ID?
No. A passport is federal ID and works for flying. You only need a federal ID driver's license if you want to use your driver's license for air travel. If you already have a passport and do not mind carrying it when you fly, you do not need to renew your license as a federal ID.