Yes, you can fly domestically with a driver's license, but it must be a Real ID-compliant license
A standard driver's license works for domestic flights within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts it at airport security checkpoints. However, the license must be Real ID-compliant — a federal standard that most states have adopted. If your license was issued before your state switched to Real ID, or if you chose a non-compliant option when renewing, you will need a different form of ID to fly.
Real ID compliance means your license has a small star or marking in the upper right corner (the exact symbol varies by state). This marking tells TSA that your state verified your identity and citizenship documents before issuing the license. Without it, TSA will ask for a second form of ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID — to let you through security.
International flights require a passport or passport card, not a driver's license, regardless of Real ID status. A driver's license alone will not get you through customs and immigration.
Key Takeaways
- A Real ID-compliant driver's license is accepted for domestic U.S. flights, but your license must show the Real ID marking (usually a star) in the upper right corner.
- If your driver's license does not have the Real ID marking, you will need a second form of ID such as a passport, military ID, or passport card to pass through airport security.
- International flights require a passport or passport card — a driver's license will not work, even if it is Real ID-compliant.
- You can check whether your license is Real ID-compliant by looking for the star marking or by visiting your state's DMV website.
How to tell if your driver's license is Real ID-compliant
The easiest way is to look at your physical license. Real ID-compliant licenses have a small star or similar marking printed in the upper right corner. The exact symbol and color depend on your state — some use a gold star, others use a circle with a star inside, and a few use different symbols entirely. If you see that marking, your license will work at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights.
If you cannot find the marking or are unsure, visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID." Most state DMV sites have a page showing what their Real ID license looks like and explaining the marking. You can also call your state DMV directly and provide your license number — they can confirm whether it is compliant.
The important date for Real ID compliance passed in 2025, so all new licenses and renewals issued now are Real ID-compliant in most states. If you renewed your license recently, it almost certainly has the marking. Older licenses issued before your state adopted Real ID may not.
What to bring to the airport if your license is not Real ID-compliant
If your driver's license does not have the Real ID marking, bring a second form of ID. TSA accepts a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. You do not need to bring all of them — one additional ID is enough.
A passport is the most common backup. If you do not have one and do not want to get one, a military ID or tribal ID works just as well. A state ID card (different from a driver's license) can also be Real ID-compliant if it has the marking, so check that before assuming you need a passport.
Bring both your driver's license and your second ID to the security checkpoint. TSA will scan or examine both. This process takes a few extra minutes but does not prevent you from flying.
Renewing your driver's license to get Real ID compliance
When you renew your driver's license at your state DMV, you can request a Real ID-compliant license. In most states, this is now the default — you get a Real ID license unless you specifically ask for a non-compliant one. A few states still offer a choice, usually because some people prefer not to have the federal marking on their ID.
Getting a Real ID license requires the same documents as a standard renewal: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Your state DMV will verify these documents against federal databases. The process is the same whether you renew in person, by mail, or online — the difference is only in what ID you receive.
Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses in most states. A few charge a small fee (usually $5 to $15) for the federal compliance verification, but many do not. Check your state DMV website to see whether there is an extra cost.
What happens if you show up to the airport without Real ID
TSA will ask you for a second form of ID. If you have one, you will be allowed through security after a brief delay. If you do not have a second ID, TSA will not let you through the checkpoint, and you will miss your flight.
This is not a permanent ban. You can reschedule your flight and return another day with proper ID. However, you may lose money on the ticket depending on your airline's rebooking policy. Some airlines allow free rebooking if you miss a flight due to ID issues, but others do not.
To avoid this, check your license before you leave for the airport. Look for the Real ID marking in the upper right corner. If it is not there, pack a passport or other accepted ID. This takes 30 seconds and prevents a costly mistake.
Real ID and other forms of ID you might have
| ID Type | Works for Domestic Flights | Works for International Flights |
|---|---|---|
| Real ID-compliant driver's license | Yes | No |
| Non-compliant driver's license | Only with a second ID | No |
| U.S. passport | Yes | Yes |
| Passport card | Yes | Yes (land and sea only) |
| Military ID | Yes | No |
| Tribal ID | Yes | No |
| Permanent resident card | Yes | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly if my driver's license is expired but Real ID-compliant?
No. TSA requires your ID to be valid and not expired, regardless of Real ID status. An expired license will not work even if it has the Real ID marking. You will need to renew your license before flying, or bring a different valid ID such as a passport.
Do I need Real ID to fly if I have a passport?
No. A passport works for both domestic and international flights without Real ID. If you have a valid passport, you do not need a Real ID-compliant driver's license. However, a driver's license is lighter and easier to carry for domestic trips, so many people get Real ID for convenience.
What if I lost my driver's license and need to fly soon?
You can fly with a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. You do not need a driver's license. If you do not have any of these, you will need to get one before flying. A passport typically takes several weeks to arrive, but a military or tribal ID may be faster depending on your situation.
Can I use a digital or mobile driver's license for flying?
TSA is testing digital IDs in some states, but as of now, TSA does not officially accept digital driver's licenses at airport security checkpoints. You must bring a physical, printed license. Check the TSA website or call ahead if you are unsure about your specific state's digital ID program.
Do I need Real ID if I only fly once a year?
Real ID is not required if you have a passport or other accepted ID. However, if you fly with a driver's license and do not have a backup ID, getting a Real ID license is simpler than carrying a passport every time. It is a one-time renewal that then works for all future domestic flights.