You need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or passport to fly domestically, but a regular state ID works if it's not a Real ID

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires one of several forms of identification to board a domestic flight. A passport works, but it is not required—most people use a state-issued driver's license instead. The catch is that your license must be Real ID-compliant, which means it has a gold star or other marking in the upper right corner. If your license does not have that marking, you will need to bring a second form of ID, such as a passport, military ID, or tribal ID.

The Real ID requirement has been in place since May 2023. If you have not renewed your license since then, yours may not be compliant yet. You can check your state's DMV website to see what the marking looks like in your state—it varies slightly—or straightforward look for a star or other symbol on the upper right of your card.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star or symbol) is the easiest ID to use for domestic flights and is accepted at all U.S. airports.
  • If your driver's license is not Real ID-compliant, you can still fly by bringing a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card instead.
  • You do not need a passport for domestic flights unless your regular ID is not Real ID-compliant or you do not have a driver's license.
  • Renewing your license to get Real ID compliance takes two to four weeks in most states, so plan ahead if you have an upcoming flight.

What counts as acceptable ID at the airport

The TSA accepts a long list of documents. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is the most common choice. If you do not have one, you can bring a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, permanent resident card, or enhanced driver's license instead. Any one of these will get you through security.

The key difference is that non-Real ID licenses require you to bring a second form of ID. So if your license does not have the star, bring your passport or military ID along with it. If you have neither, you will need to renew your license before your flight.

How to check if your license is Real ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license. In most states, a Real ID-compliant license has a gold or black star. Some states use a different symbol—California uses a gold bear, for example. If you see a star or your state's equivalent symbol, your license is compliant and you can use it alone.

If you are unsure, visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID." The site will show you what the marking looks like and tell you whether your current license is compliant. You can also ask at the airport—TSA officers can tell you on the spot—but it is better to know before you arrive.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license before your flight

Visit your state's DMV in person. You cannot renew for Real ID online in most states. Bring your current driver's license, proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and proof of address (utility bill or lease). Requirements vary slightly by state, so check your DMV website first.

Processing times range from two to four weeks in most states, though some are faster. If your flight is sooner than that, bring a passport or other acceptable ID instead. If you do not have a passport and your flight is within two weeks, you will need to use one of the other forms of ID listed above.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

The TSA will not let you through security without one of the accepted forms of identification. You will not be able to board your flight. If you realize this at the airport, you have a few options: you can reschedule your flight, you can ask the TSA if a supervisor can verify your identity using other means (this rarely works), or you can leave the airport and return with acceptable ID if you have time.

The best approach is to check your ID before you leave for the airport. If you do not have a Real ID-compliant license and no other acceptable ID, do not go to the airport—reschedule your flight or get a passport first. Showing up unprepared wastes your travel time and may cost you money in rebooking fees.

Passport cards and other travel documents

A U.S. passport card is smaller than a full passport and costs less, but it works just as well for TSA purposes. You can also use a passport book. Both are issued by the State Department and take several weeks to arrive. If you need ID quickly and do not have a Real ID license, a military ID or tribal ID is faster to obtain than a passport.

An enhanced driver's license, available in some states, also counts as Real ID-compliant and can be used for domestic flights. Check your state's DMV to see if this option is available where you live. These licenses cost more than standard renewals but eliminate the need to carry a separate passport for domestic travel.

International flights and ID requirements

For flights leaving the United States, you must have a passport. A driver's license, even a Real ID-compliant one, is not enough. You will need a U.S. passport book (not a passport card) for most countries, though a passport card works for travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by sea or air. Start the passport process at least six weeks before your international flight.

The State Department processes standard passport applications in four to six weeks, though expedited service is available for an additional fee and takes two to three weeks. If your international flight is sooner than that, you may not have time to get a passport, so reschedule your trip or contact the State Department about emergency services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired Real ID license?

No. Your ID must be valid. If your Real ID license has expired, you will need to renew it or bring another form of acceptable ID. Renewal takes two to four weeks in most states, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

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

No. A passport works for domestic flights whether or not you have a Real ID license. You can use your passport alone at the airport. However, most people find a driver's license more convenient to carry.

What if I lost my ID right before my flight?

Contact your state's DMV when ready to see if they can issue a replacement quickly—some states can do this in one business day. If not, you can use a passport, military ID, or other acceptable form of ID instead. If you have none of these, you will need to reschedule your flight.

Can I use a photo from my phone or a digital ID?

No. The TSA requires a physical ID document. Digital IDs on your phone are not yet accepted at airport security, though some states are working on this. Bring your actual card or passport.

Do children need ID to fly domestically?

No. Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights. However, they must be traveling with an adult. The adult needs acceptable ID. For international flights, children need a passport regardless of age.