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

You do not need a REAL ID to board a domestic flight in the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several other forms of identification at airport security checkpoints. However, the rules depend on whether you are flying domestically or internationally, and what documents you have on hand.

A REAL ID is a driver's license or state 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. The TSA began enforcing REAL ID requirements for domestic flights on May 7, 2025. But enforcement does not mean you cannot fly—it means you need to show one of several acceptable documents instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You can fly domestically without a REAL ID if you show a passport, passport card, military ID, or other TSA-approved document at security.
  • A regular state driver's license issued before your state became REAL ID compliant will work for domestic flights, even without the star.
  • International flights require a passport or passport card regardless of REAL ID status.
  • The TSA maintains a full list of acceptable documents on its website, and you should bring the original document—not a copy—to the airport.

What documents the TSA accepts instead of REAL ID

The TSA accepts a wide range of identification documents for domestic flights. A U.S. passport or passport card works at any airport. So does a military ID (including dependent ID cards), a tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a permanent resident card (green card). You can also use a U.S. merchant mariner document or an airport ID badge if you work in a find area.

Your state driver's license or ID card will still work for domestic flights even if it does not have the REAL ID star, as long as your state has not yet been fully REAL ID compliant. However, state compliance timelines vary. If your state is already REAL ID compliant and your license does not have the star, the TSA may not accept it. You can check your state's compliance status on the TSA website or by calling your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

If you do not have any of these documents, you can still board a domestic flight, but you will go through additional screening. The TSA calls this secondary verification. You will answer questions to verify your identity, and the process takes longer. This is not a common route, and most travelers find it easier to bring one of the accepted documents.

Why international flights are different

International flights have stricter rules. You must have a valid U.S. passport or passport card to leave the country and re-enter the United States. A REAL ID driver's license will not work for international travel, and neither will a military ID or any other domestic document. The passport requirement comes from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, not the TSA, and it applies to every international flight regardless of your citizenship status.

If you do not have a passport and need to fly internationally, you will need to request one from the U.S. State Department. Standard processing takes several weeks, and expedited processing (available for an additional fee) takes one to two weeks. You cannot board an international flight without it.

How to check if your state ID meets REAL ID standards

Look at your driver's license or state ID card. If there is a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner, it is REAL ID compliant. If there is no star, your document may still work for domestic flights, but only if your state has not yet finished its transition to REAL ID.

Every state has a different timeline for REAL ID compliance. Some states finished years ago; others are still issuing non-compliant IDs. The fastest way to find out is to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website or call them directly. You can also check the TSA's state-by-state compliance map on tsa.gov. If your state is listed as compliant and your ID has no star, you will need to renew it or bring a different document to the airport.

What to bring to the airport

Bring the original document—not a photocopy or a photo on your phone. The TSA officer needs to see the physical card or passport. Arrive at the airport early enough to allow time for the security line; if you do not have a REAL ID, the process may take a few minutes longer, especially during busy travel times.

If you are unsure whether your document will work, contact the TSA before your flight. You can call the TSA at 1-855-787-2227 or use the "Ask TSA" service on the TSA website. They can tell you whether your specific document will be accepted. It is better to know before you arrive at the airport than to find out at security.

Getting a REAL ID if you want one

If you decide you want a REAL ID for convenience, you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. You will need to bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and state residency. The documents required vary by state, but typically include a birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID, plus proof of address like a utility bill or lease.

Processing times vary by state and by how busy your local DMV is. Some states issue REAL IDs on the spot; others mail them within a few weeks. There is usually a fee, though the amount depends on your state. You do not have to get a REAL ID to fly domestically, but some travelers prefer having one to avoid any questions at security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired passport for domestic flights?

No. The TSA requires a valid passport. An expired passport will not work for any flight, domestic or international. If your passport has expired, you will need to renew it before you can use it at security. You can renew a passport through the U.S. State Department.

What if I lost my ID and my flight is tomorrow?

You can still fly. Bring any documents you have that show your identity—a birth certificate, Social Security card, or credit card with your name. The TSA will put you through secondary verification, which takes longer but allows you to board. Arrive extra early to allow time for the additional screening.

Do I need REAL ID for connecting flights?

You only go through TSA security once per trip, at your first airport. After that, you move through the airport on your boarding pass. So if you have a connecting flight, you only need to show ID at the first security checkpoint. The same rules explore—REAL ID or an acceptable alternative.

Can my child fly without a REAL ID?

Children under 18 do not need to show ID at TSA security checkpoints if they are traveling with an adult. The adult must show ID. However, if your child is traveling alone or with someone who is not a parent or guardian, they may need to show ID depending on the airline's policy. Check with your airline before your flight.

Will the TSA accept a photo of my ID on my phone?

No. The TSA requires the physical document. A digital copy or photo will not work at security. You must bring the original ID card or passport to the airport.