You cannot fly domestically in the United States with only a regular driver's license anymore

As of May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers on domestic flights to show either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, a military ID, or another approved form of identification. A standard driver's license issued before your state adopted REAL ID standards will not get you through airport security.

The difference is visible: a REAL ID-compliant license has a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. If your license does not have this star, you will be turned away at the TSA checkpoint, even if you have a confirmed flight reservation. You cannot board the plane without passing security first.

This applies to all domestic flights — flights within the 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories. International flights have always required a passport and are not affected by this change.

Key Takeaways

  • A regular driver's license without the REAL ID star will not work for domestic flights as of May 7, 2025.
  • Your state's DMV can issue you a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card, which costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state.
  • You will need to bring documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and address — typically a birth certificate, Social Security card, and utility bill or lease.
  • Processing times vary by state; some issue the card the same day, while others take several weeks by mail.
  • If you cannot get a REAL ID in time, a passport, military ID, or passport card will work for domestic flights.

What documents you need to get a REAL ID license

Your state's DMV will ask for proof of identity, proof of a Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not count.

For identity, bring a birth certificate, passport, or passport card. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a W-2 form. For your address, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Some states accept a mortgage statement or property tax bill instead.

You do not need to bring your current driver's license, but it helps speed up the process. Call your state's DMV before you go — requirements vary slightly by state, and some DMVs have specific document lists on their websites.

How long it takes to get a REAL ID license

Processing time depends entirely on your state. Some DMVs issue the card on the spot; others mail it to you within one to three weeks. A few states take longer — check your state's DMV website for the current timeline.

If you are flying soon and your state mails the card, you have two options: request expedited processing (available in some states for an extra fee), or bring a different form of ID to the airport instead. Do not wait until the week before your flight to explore.

Other forms of ID that work for domestic flights

You do not have to get a REAL ID license. The TSA accepts several other documents at the security checkpoint: a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a federal employee ID, a tribal ID, a permanent resident card, or a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential.

A passport takes four to six weeks to receive through the standard process, or one to two weeks if you pay for expedited service. A passport card (a smaller, wallet-sized version) costs less and takes the same time. If you already have either one, you can use it instead of getting a REAL ID license.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID license or another acceptable form of ID, the TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will miss your flight. You cannot board without passing security, and you cannot pass security without approved identification.

Some airlines may rebook you on a later flight at no charge, but this is not may provide — check your airline's policy. You will not receive a refund for a missed flight due to lack of ID. The only way forward is to go home, get acceptable ID, and book a new flight.

REAL ID for people without a Social Security number

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a REAL ID license in most states. Bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, along with proof of identity and address. Some states require additional documentation for applicants without a Social Security number — contact your DMV to confirm what you need.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your passport or permanent resident card as proof of identity. The process is the same, but your state may require you to show proof of lawful status in the United States.

REAL ID for people with name changes

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Your state's DMV will use this to match your birth certificate to your current legal name.

If you do not have the original document, ask the issuing office (county clerk, court, or vital records office) for a certified copy. A photocopy will not work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired REAL ID license?

No. The TSA requires a valid, non-expired ID. An expired REAL ID license will be rejected at security. You will need to renew it at your state's DMV before you can fly. Check your state's renewal process — some allow online renewal, while others require an in-person visit.

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

No. A valid passport works for domestic flights without a REAL ID license. You can use either one. If you already have a passport, you do not need to get a REAL ID license just for flying domestically.

What if my state hasn't issued REAL ID licenses yet?

All 50 states and U.S. territories now issue REAL ID licenses. If your state has not yet, contact your DMV — they can tell you when the program launches in your area. Until then, use a passport, military ID, or another acceptable form of ID for flights.

Can I use a REAL ID license to enter federal buildings or military bases?

Yes. REAL ID licenses work for entering federal buildings and military bases, in addition to domestic flights. This is one reason the TSA introduced the requirement — it standardizes ID across federal access points.

How much does a REAL ID license cost?

Cost varies by state, ranging from $10 to $30. Some states charge extra for expedited processing. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and whether you can pay online or must pay in person.