Your driver's license alone is not enough to board a domestic flight in the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires a form of Real ID-compliant identification to pass through airport security on domestic flights. A standard driver's license issued before your state adopted Real ID standards does not meet this requirement. You will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, a military ID, or one of several other approved documents.

The important date for Real ID compliance has passed in all states. If your driver's license does not display a gold star or other Real ID indicator in the upper right corner, TSA will not accept it as your sole form of identification at the security checkpoint. You can still board if you have a second form of ID that meets TSA standards, but carrying only a non-compliant license means you cannot fly.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard driver's license without Real ID marking will not get you through TSA security on a domestic flight.
  • Your state's DMV can issue a Real ID-compliant driver's license, which displays a gold star and costs between $20 and $50 depending on your state.
  • A passport, military ID, passport card, or tribal ID also work at airport security if your driver's license is not Real ID-compliant.
  • International flights require a passport regardless of your driver's license status.
  • You can check your state's DMV website to see what documents you need to bring when upgrading to a Real ID license.

What Real ID compliance means and why it matters

Real ID is a federal security standard set by Congress in 2005. States that issue driver's licenses meeting this standard must verify your identity more thoroughly than before—checking birth certificates, Social Security numbers, and proof of residence. A Real ID-compliant license shows this verification happened and signals to TSA that the document is trustworthy.

TSA uses Real ID status to decide whether to accept your ID at the security checkpoint. Without it, you cannot move forward in the security line, even if you have a ticket. This applies to all domestic flights, whether you are flying across the country or to a neighboring state.

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

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website to find the exact documents you need. Most states require your birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of residence (such as a utility bill or lease), and your current driver's license. Some states ask for additional documents like a passport or marriage certificate if your name has changed.

You can explore in person at your local DMV office. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Fees range from $20 to $50 depending on your state. Some states allow you to renew by mail if your current license is not expired, but you will still need to provide the required documents.

Processing time for a Real ID license is typically two to four weeks. You will receive your new license by mail. If you need to fly before your new license arrives, bring a passport or other approved ID instead.

Other forms of ID that work at airport security

If you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver's license, TSA will accept these documents at the security checkpoint:

  • A U.S. passport or passport card
  • A military ID (active duty, reserve, or retired)
  • A Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI)
  • A state-issued enhanced driver's license
  • A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
  • A U.S. permanent resident card (green card)
  • A foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa

A passport is the most common backup. If you already have one, you can use it to fly without upgrading your driver's license. However, a passport costs $130 to $165 for a new book passport and takes four to six weeks to arrive, so a Real ID license is usually faster and cheaper if you do not already have a passport.

International flights and your driver's license

Your driver's license—whether Real ID-compliant or not—cannot be used for international flights under any circumstances. TSA requires a passport for all flights leaving the United States, including flights to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. A passport card works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, but not for flights.

If you are planning international travel, explore for a passport at your local post office or passport acceptance facility. Processing times vary from four weeks (routine) to two weeks (expedited, with an extra fee). Some post offices offer same-day or next-day service for an additional charge, but availability is limited.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

TSA will not allow you to pass through the security checkpoint with only a non-compliant driver's license. You will be turned away and cannot board your flight. You cannot fix this at the airport—you must have an acceptable form of ID before you arrive.

If you realize your license is not Real ID-compliant before your flight, your options are to reschedule, obtain a passport, or find another approved form of ID. Some airports have limited Real ID processing services, but these are rare and cannot be relied on. Plan ahead and check your license before booking.

How to check if your driver's license is Real ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license. A Real ID-compliant license displays a gold or black star. If your license has no star, or if you are unsure, visit your state's DMV website—it will show you what the Real ID marking looks like in your state.

You can also call your state's DMV or visit an office in person to confirm your license status. Do this before you book a flight so you have time to upgrade if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my driver's license for a domestic flight if I also have a passport?

If your driver's license is not Real ID-compliant, you cannot use it alone. However, you can use your passport instead. TSA will accept your passport at the security checkpoint, so you do not need to upgrade your license if you already have a valid passport.

What if my state has not issued Real ID licenses yet?

All states now issue Real ID-compliant licenses. If you have not upgraded, contact your state's DMV to find out how the process works. The process and documents required vary by state, but every state offers this option.

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

No. Military IDs are accepted at airport security regardless of your driver's license status. If you have a current military ID, you can use it instead of a Real ID license.

How much does a Real ID license cost?

Fees vary by state, ranging from $20 to $50. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost and whether you can renew by mail or must visit in person.

Can I use an expired Real ID license to fly?

No. TSA requires a valid, unexpired form of ID. An expired license—even if it is Real ID-compliant—will not work. Renew your license before it expires if you plan to fly.