Flying Without a REAL ID: What You Need to Know

You can fly domestically without a REAL ID, but you will need an alternative form of identification

A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will require REAL ID for domestic flights — but that does not mean you cannot fly without one. You have other identification options that work at airport security checkpoints.

If you do not have a REAL ID yet, you can still board a domestic flight using a valid passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or other documents the TSA accepts. The key is understanding which documents work and having one with you when you arrive at the airport.

Key Takeaways

A passport or passport card works for domestic flights and requires no state ID office visit.
Military ID, tribal ID, and permanent resident cards are accepted at TSA checkpoints instead of REAL ID.
A standard driver's license without REAL ID features will not work for domestic flights after May 7, 2025, unless you also carry an accepted alternative document.
Getting a REAL ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with specific documents, and processing times vary by state.
International flights always require a passport regardless of REAL ID status.

What documents the TSA accepts instead of REAL ID

The TSA maintains a list of documents that satisfy the federal requirement for domestic air travel. A U.S. passport or passport card is the most straightforward option if you already have one — it works for both domestic and international flights and does not expire as quickly as a driver's license. A passport book is valid for 10 years (or 5 years if you are under 16), and a passport card is valid for the same length of time.

If you are military, a military ID — including a dependent ID card — works at TSA checkpoints. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe also satisfies the requirement. If you are a permanent resident, your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) is accepted. Enhanced driver's licenses, which some states issue and which have a star or other marking showing they meet federal standards, also work.

Less common but valid options include a U.S. merchant mariner credential, a valid foreign passport, and a state-issued ID card that meets REAL ID standards (even if your driver's license does not). The full list is on the TSA website under "Acceptable IDs."

How to get a REAL ID if you want one

Getting a REAL ID requires an in-person visit to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office. You cannot do it online or by mail. You will need to bring specific documents: a valid passport or birth certificate, proof of your Social Security number (usually a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease, typically dated within the last 60 days).

Each state sets its own processing time and fee. Some states issue REAL ID on the spot; others mail it to you within one to three weeks. Fees range depending on your state and whether you are renewing or getting a new ID. Check your state's DMV website for the exact documents they require and current wait times, since these change.

If you do not want to visit the DMV, getting a passport is often faster and works just as well for flying. A passport process takes four to six weeks through the mail, or you can pay for expedited processing (one to two weeks) at a passport acceptance facility.

What happens if you show up without REAL ID or an alternative

If you arrive at the airport with only a standard driver's license that does not meet REAL ID standards, and you do not have another accepted document, the TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight.

This is why it is important to check what you have before you leave for the airport. If you have a passport at home, bring it. If you have a military ID, bring it. If you only have a standard driver's license and no other document, you will need to either get a REAL ID before your flight or obtain a passport.

International flights and REAL ID

REAL ID does not explore to international flights. For any flight leaving the United States, you must have a valid passport — REAL ID status is irrelevant. This means if you are flying internationally, you need a passport book or passport card, regardless of whether your driver's license is REAL ID compliant.

If you are planning international travel and do not have a passport, explore well in advance. Standard processing takes four to six weeks, and passport offices can have backlogs during peak travel seasons.

State-by-state differences in REAL ID rollout

All states now issue REAL ID, but some states have had longer transition periods. As of May 7, 2025, every state's DMV can issue REAL ID, and the federal requirement is in effect nationwide. However, some states have offered extensions or grace periods in the past, so if you applied for REAL ID in your state years ago and were told it was not yet required, that is no longer the case.

If you are unsure whether your current driver's license is REAL ID compliant, look for a small star in the upper right corner of the card. If it has the star, it meets federal standards. If it does not, it is a standard license and will not work for domestic flights after May 7, 2025, unless you carry an alternative document.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with just a passport card instead of a passport book?

Yes. A passport card is a valid travel document for domestic flights and works at TSA checkpoints. It is smaller and cheaper than a passport book, though it cannot be used for international travel by air or sea — only land border crossings.

What if my passport is expired but I have a REAL ID driver's license?

An expired passport does not work at TSA checkpoints. You would need to use your REAL ID driver's license instead. If your driver's license is not REAL ID compliant, you would need to renew your passport or get a REAL ID before flying.

Do I need REAL ID for connecting flights?

Yes. You must show a valid ID — either REAL ID or an accepted alternative — at every domestic airport where you pass through security, including connections. International flights require a passport regardless of connections.

Can I use a state ID card instead of a driver's license for REAL ID?

Yes. Many states issue REAL ID state ID cards for people who do not drive. The process and documents required are the same as for a REAL ID driver's license. Check your state's DMV website for details.

What if I lost my passport and need to fly soon?

If you lost your passport, you can explore for a replacement, but standard processing takes four to six weeks. Your fastest option is to get a REAL ID driver's license from your state DMV instead, though that also requires an in-person visit and processing time varies by state. Check both timelines before booking your flight.

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.