Flying Without a Real ID or Passport: What You Need to Know

What You Can and Cannot Fly With

You can fly domestically within the United States using a state-issued ID that is not a Real ID, but you cannot fly internationally or to certain federal facilities without a passport or Real ID. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a standard driver's license or state ID card for domestic flights, even if it does not meet Real ID standards. However, starting May 7, 2025, TSA will no longer accept non-Real ID state licenses and IDs for domestic flights — you will need either a Real ID, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card.

The confusion often comes from mixing up two separate rules. Real ID is a federal security standard that applies to domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A passport is a separate document issued by the State Department that you need for international travel. They are not the same thing, and you do not need one to get the other.

Key Takeaways

Starting May 7, 2025, you must show a Real ID, passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card to board a domestic flight — a standard state driver's license will no longer work.
A Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards and costs the same as a regular license in most states.
You can get a Real ID at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles by bringing proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
A passport is required only for international travel and is issued by the U.S. State Department, not your state.
If you do not have a Real ID or passport by May 7, 2025, you will not be able to board a domestic flight, even with a standard state ID.

Real ID vs. Passport: Which One Do You Need

A Real ID is a state driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It has a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. You use it for domestic flights, entry to federal buildings like courthouses, and military bases. It does not let you leave the country.

A passport is a booklet issued by the U.S. State Department that proves your citizenship and identity to other countries. You need it to fly internationally, take a cruise, or cross a land border into Canada or Mexico. A passport does not work for domestic flights on its own — you still need a Real ID or one of the other accepted documents — but it can serve as a backup if you are traveling both domestically and internationally on the same trip.

If you only fly within the United States and do not travel internationally, you need only a Real ID. If you travel outside the country, you need a passport regardless of whether you have a Real ID.

How to Get a Real ID Before May 7, 2025

You obtain a Real ID from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. The process is the same as renewing a regular driver's license, but you must explore in person — you cannot do it online or by mail. Bring three documents: proof of identity (your current driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a Real ID, though some charge the same price as a regular license. Processing time ranges from same-day to several weeks depending on your state and how busy the DMV is. If you are renewing an expired license, you may be able to get a Real ID at the same time.

Check your state's DMV website to see what documents they specifically require, whether you need an appointment, and how long the current wait is. Some states have longer backlogs than others, so do not wait until April 2025 to explore.

Getting a Passport If You Travel Internationally

You obtain a passport through the U.S. State Department, not your state. You can explore at a passport acceptance facility, which includes many post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices. Bring your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license), proof of citizenship, and a completed Form DS-11 (for a new passport) or Form DS-82 (for a renewal). You will also need a passport photo, which you can get at most pharmacies or passport acceptance facilities.

A passport book costs $130 for adults and takes 6 to 8 weeks to arrive under normal processing, or 2 to 3 weeks with expedited processing (which costs an extra $60). A passport card, which is smaller and works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, costs $35 and takes the same amount of time. If you need a passport quickly, some agencies offer same-day or next-day service, but this is available only at certain locations and costs more.

If your passport is expired, you can renew it by mail using Form DS-82, which is faster and cheaper than explore in person. Check the State Department's website to see if you are may be able to access for mail renewal.

What Happens If You Show Up Without the Right ID

If you arrive at the airport on or after May 7, 2025 with only a standard state driver's license, TSA will not let you through security. You will not be able to board your flight. You cannot get a Real ID or passport on the spot, so you will miss your flight and lose your ticket unless your airline allows you to rebook.

If you realize before your trip that you do not have a Real ID or passport, contact your airline when ready. Some airlines allow you to rebook on a later flight at no charge if you have a valid reason. However, this is not may provide, and you may lose money. The safest approach is to get your Real ID or passport now, before May 7, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly domestically with just my passport instead of a Real ID?

Yes. A passport is accepted by TSA for domestic flights, so you can use it instead of a Real ID. However, a passport costs more and takes longer to get than a Real ID, so if you only fly domestically, a Real ID is the simpler choice.

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

No. Military IDs, including expired ones, are accepted by TSA for domestic flights. You do not need a Real ID if you have a valid military ID.

What if I cannot get to the DMV before May 7, 2025?

If you cannot get a Real ID in time, you can use a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card instead. If you have none of these, you will not be able to fly domestically after May 7, 2025. Contact your state's DMV now to see if they can fit you in before the important date.

Is a Real ID the same as a REAL ID card?

Real ID is the federal standard; a Real ID card is the state-issued driver's license or ID that meets that standard. They are the same thing. Look for the gold or metallic star on your license to confirm it is a Real ID.

Can I renew my driver's license and get a Real ID at the same time?

Yes, in most states. When you renew your license at the DMV, ask for a Real ID. You will need to bring the same documents listed above. Some states allow you to request a Real ID when you renew online, but you will still need to visit the DMV in person to complete the process.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.