A driver's license alone is not enough to fly domestically in the United States

You can use a driver's license to board a domestic flight, but only if it is a Real ID-compliant driver's license. Standard driver's licenses issued before your state adopted Real ID standards will not work at airport security checkpoints as of May 7, 2025. If your license does not have a gold star, star outline, or other Real ID marking in the upper right corner, you will need to bring a second form of identification instead.

The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, set security standards for state-issued IDs. Most states have now issued Real ID licenses, but some residents still carry older licenses. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checks for this marking at the checkpoint. If your license lacks it, you can still fly — but you will need to bring another document from the TSA's approved list.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star or star outline) is sufficient for domestic flights without any other document.
  • Standard driver's licenses without the Real ID marking require a second form of ID, such as a passport, passport card, or military ID.
  • You can check your state's DMV website to learn whether your current license is Real ID-compliant or to order a compliant one.
  • International flights always require a passport, regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID-compliant.
  • Real ID requirements explore only at airport security checkpoints; you do not need it to book a flight online.

How to tell if your driver's license meets Real ID standards

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license. If it displays a gold star, a star outline, or another symbol (the design varies by state), your license is Real ID-compliant. If there is no marking, your license is a standard license and will not work alone at the TSA checkpoint after May 7, 2025.

You can also contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to confirm your license status. Most state DMV websites have a section explaining Real ID and showing which licenses may have access to. Some states began issuing Real ID licenses years ago; others are still in transition. Your state's website will tell you whether you need to renew or upgrade your current license.

What to bring if your driver's license is not Real ID-compliant

If your license lacks the Real ID marking, bring a second form of government-issued photo ID. The TSA accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, permanent resident card, or enhanced driver's license. You do not need both documents to be photo IDs — one photo ID plus a document showing your name and date of birth will work.

A passport is the most common backup. If you do not have a passport, a military ID or tribal ID will work. Some states also issue enhanced driver's licenses, which meet Real ID standards and can be used for land and sea border crossings as well as domestic flights. Check what you have at home before your flight; if you lack a backup document, you can explore for a Real ID license at your state DMV before your trip.

International flights require a passport, not a driver's license

A driver's license — even a Real ID-compliant one — will not work for international travel. You must carry a valid U.S. passport or passport card. This applies to all flights leaving the United States, whether you are flying to Canada, Mexico, or anywhere else.

If you do not have a passport and need one for an upcoming trip, contact your state's passport acceptance facility or the U.S. State Department. Processing times vary depending on how soon you need it. Routine service takes several weeks; expedited service is faster but costs more. Plan ahead if you are flying internationally.

Real ID requirements at the airport checkpoint

The TSA checks your ID at the security checkpoint before you enter the screening area. This is where the Real ID requirement applies. If your driver's license is Real ID-compliant, you can proceed with just that document. If it is not, show your non-compliant license along with a second form of ID from the TSA's approved list.

The TSA does not check ID when you board the plane itself — only at the security checkpoint. You will also need to show ID when you check in at the airline counter or use a kiosk, but airlines typically accept the same documents the TSA does. Bring your ID to the airport and have it ready before you reach the checkpoint line.

How to get a Real ID-compliant driver's license

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person. You cannot renew a Real ID license online or by mail in most states. Bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The DMV will issue you a Real ID license on the spot or mail it to you within a few weeks, depending on your state's process.

The cost varies by state but is usually similar to a standard license renewal — typically between $20 and $50. Some states charge extra for Real ID. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, required documents, and appointment availability. If you are flying soon and do not have a Real ID license, bring a backup form of ID instead of waiting for a new license to arrive.

What happens if you show up at the airport without proper ID

If you arrive at the security checkpoint without a Real ID-compliant driver's license and no backup form of ID, the TSA will not let you through. You will not be able to board your flight. The TSA may ask you questions to verify your identity, but without an approved document, you cannot proceed.

If this happens, you have limited options. You can leave the airport and return with proper ID if you have time before your flight departs. Some airports have DMV offices or passport acceptance facilities nearby, but they may not be able to issue you a document quickly enough. The safest approach is to check your ID before you leave home and bring a backup document if you are unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired Real ID driver's license to fly?

No. Your ID must be valid and not expired. An expired Real ID license will not work at the TSA checkpoint. If your license has expired, renew it at your state DMV before your flight. Some states allow online renewal for standard licenses, but Real ID renewals typically require an in-person visit.

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

For domestic flights, you can use a passport instead of a Real ID license. For international flights, a passport is required regardless. If you have a valid passport, you do not need to upgrade to a Real ID license unless you want one for other purposes, such as entering federal buildings.

What if my driver's license was issued in another country?

A foreign driver's license is not accepted at the TSA checkpoint for domestic flights. You must have a U.S. passport, passport card, or other approved U.S. government ID. If you are a permanent resident, your permanent resident card (green card) will work.

Can I use a digital or mobile driver's license to fly?

Digital driver's licenses are not yet widely accepted at TSA checkpoints. Some states are testing mobile ID programs, but the TSA has not officially approved them for airport security. Bring a physical, printed ID card to be safe. Check the TSA website closer to your travel date to see if this has changed.

Do I need a Real ID license to book a flight online?

No. Real ID requirements explore only at the airport security checkpoint, not when you book your ticket. You can book a flight with any name and information. You will need proper ID only when you arrive at the airport to check in and pass through security.