You need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or passport to fly domestically, but a regular state ID works if it was issued before 2020

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires one form of government-issued photo ID to board a domestic flight in the United States. A standard driver's license issued before May 7, 2025, works fine. A passport works. A passport card works. A military ID works. What does not work is a regular state ID card or an expired license, even if you're flying from New York to Florida.

The rule changed because of the REAL ID Act, a federal law passed in 2005. Most states have now switched to issuing Real ID-compliant licenses — you can tell because they have a gold or silver star in the upper right corner. If your license doesn't have that star and was issued before May 7, 2025, you can still use it to fly. After that date, you'll need either the star or a different form of ID.

You do not need a passport to fly domestically. A passport is one option, but it's not required. Most people use a driver's license because they already have one.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star) works for domestic flights, and so does any driver's license issued before May 7, 2025.
  • A passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID all work for domestic flights and do not expire the way driver's licenses do.
  • After May 7, 2025, a non-Real ID driver's license will not work for domestic air travel, but you can renew it to get the Real ID version.
  • You must bring the ID with you to the airport — TSA will ask for it at the security checkpoint, not at the ticket counter.
  • Children under 18 do not need ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with an adult, but the adult must have valid ID.

What counts as valid ID for domestic flights

The TSA maintains a list of documents that work. A Real ID-compliant driver's license is the most common choice. Look for the gold or silver star in the upper right corner. If you don't see a star, your license still works until May 7, 2025 — after that, you'll need to renew it to the Real ID version or bring a different form of ID.

Other documents that work include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, permanent resident card, or enhanced driver's license (available in a few states). A passport is especially useful if your driver's license is expired or you don't have one, because a passport doesn't expire as quickly and works for both domestic and international travel.

A regular state ID card — the kind you get if you don't drive — does not work unless it's Real ID-compliant. Many states have not yet issued Real ID versions of non-driver ID cards, so check with your state's DMV if that's your only option.

What happens if your ID is expired

An expired driver's license does not work, even if it's only expired by a few days. You need a current, valid ID. If your license expired and it's not Real ID-compliant, you have two problems: you can't fly with it, and you'll need to renew it anyway.

If your passport is expired, it does not work for domestic flights either. However, you can renew a passport by mail without leaving home, and the process usually takes four to six weeks. If you need to fly sooner, a Real ID driver's license is faster to renew at most DMVs — many states offer same-day or next-day service.

If you're stuck without valid ID and your flight is soon, call the TSA at 866-289-9673. They can sometimes issue a one-time exception, but it's not may provide and requires you to arrive at the airport extra early for additional screening.

Getting a Real ID driver's license before the important date

If your license doesn't have the star and you want to fly after May 7, 2025, you'll need to renew it. Go to your state's DMV website and look for "Real ID" or "REAL ID-compliant license." The process is the same as a regular renewal, but you'll need to bring original documents: a birth certificate, passport, or state ID; proof of your Social Security number; and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease works).

Most states let you renew online or by mail, but Real ID renewals usually require an in-person visit. Some states have added online options, so check your DMV's website first. The cost is similar to a regular renewal — usually between $20 and $50 depending on your state — and the new license arrives in the mail within two to four weeks.

You don't have to wait until May 7, 2025, to renew. If your current license is still valid, you can renew early. Many people do this to avoid the rush closer to the important date.

Traveling with children

Children under 18 do not need ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with an adult. The adult must have valid ID, but the child does not. This applies whether the child is a U.S. citizen or not.

If a child is traveling alone or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian, some airlines have additional rules. Check with your airline before you book. The TSA's ID requirement is the same, but the airline may ask for a notarized letter from the parent or guardian giving permission for the trip.

Flying to U.S. territories and special cases

Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa are U.S. territories. Flights there are considered domestic, so you need the same ID as any other domestic flight. You do not need a passport.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you still need a government-issued photo ID. A passport from your home country works. A permanent resident card (green card) works. A tribal ID works if you're a member of a federally recognized tribe. If you're in the U.S. on a visa, bring your passport and visa documentation.

What to do at the airport

Bring your ID with you in your carry-on bag or pocket — don't pack it in checked luggage. When you arrive at the airport, go to the TSA security checkpoint. A TSA officer will ask for your ID before you go through the metal detector or body scanner. Have it ready and out of your bag.

The TSA checks that your ID is real, that it hasn't expired, and that the photo looks like you. They do not check whether you're on the flight list — that happens at the airline ticket counter. If your ID is valid, you'll pass through security and head to your gate.

If the TSA has questions about your ID, they may ask you to step aside for additional screening. This is normal and usually takes a few extra minutes. Arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight to give yourself time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a school ID or work ID to fly?

No. The TSA requires a government-issued photo ID. School IDs and work IDs don't count, even if they have your photo and signature. A driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID are your options.

What if I lost my ID the day before my flight?

Call the TSA at 866-289-9673 before you go to the airport. They may issue a one-time exception, but you'll need to arrive extra early and bring documents that prove your identity, like a birth certificate or Social Security card. It's not may provide, so have a backup plan.

Do I need a Real ID to fly if I have a passport?

No. A passport works for domestic flights whether or not you have a Real ID driver's license. You only need one valid form of ID, and a passport is sufficient.

Can I renew my driver's license online and still fly before it arrives?

No. You need the physical ID card in your hands at the airport. If you renew online, you'll have to wait for the new card to arrive in the mail. If you need to fly before then, use a passport or other valid ID instead.

What if I'm a U.S. citizen but don't have a birth certificate to get a Real ID?

Contact your state's vital records office — they can issue a certified birth certificate. You can also use a passport as proof of citizenship. If you already have a passport, you don't need a Real ID to fly domestically, so you can skip the renewal until your current license expires for other reasons.