You can fly without a Real ID, but you need an acceptable form of identification

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several documents at airport security checkpoints. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card is one option, but it is not the only one. If you do not have a Real ID, you can use a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead. The TSA maintains a full list of acceptable documents on its website, and most people have at least one of these alternatives available.

The Real ID requirement applies only to domestic flights and entry to federal buildings. If you are flying within the United States, you need one of the accepted forms of ID — but that does not have to be a Real ID. International flights require a passport regardless of whether your state ID is Real ID-compliant. The key is bringing something the TSA recognizes at the checkpoint.

Key Takeaways

  • A passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID will get you through TSA security without a Real ID-compliant driver's license.
  • The Real ID requirement applies only to domestic flights; international travel requires a passport.
  • You must bring one of the TSA's accepted documents — arriving without any ID will result in being turned away from the checkpoint.
  • If your state ID is not Real ID-compliant, check the TSA's list to confirm your document is acceptable before you travel.

Documents the TSA accepts instead of Real ID

A U.S. passport or passport card is the most straightforward alternative. These documents are issued by the State Department and are accepted at every TSA checkpoint. If you already have a passport for international travel, you can use it for domestic flights as well. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport book, costs around $130 for a new applicant, and takes several weeks to arrive by mail.

A military ID issued by the Department of Defense works at TSA checkpoints. This includes active-duty military, retirees, and dependents with a valid military ID card. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe is also acceptable. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, your tribal government can issue an ID that the TSA will accept.

A permanent resident card (green card) is acceptable, as is a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential. Enhanced driver's licenses issued by some states — which have a star or marking indicating they meet federal standards — are also on the TSA's list. The TSA website shows the complete list of acceptable documents, organized by category.

What happens if you arrive without acceptable ID

If you show up at the airport without one of the TSA's accepted documents, you will not be allowed through the security checkpoint. TSA officers cannot let you proceed to your gate without identification. You will miss your flight and will need to reschedule your travel.

Some travelers have been able to proceed after TSA officers verified their identity through additional questioning and a background check, but this is not may provide and takes significant extra time. The safest approach is to confirm you have an acceptable document before you leave for the airport. If you are unsure whether your ID qualifies, check the TSA's list or call the TSA at 1-855-787-2227 before your trip.

How to get a passport if you do not have one

A passport book takes four to six weeks to arrive under normal processing, or two to three weeks with expedited processing (which costs extra). You explore in person at a passport acceptance facility — usually a post office, library, or county clerk's office. You will need your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form (DS-11 for a new passport).

A passport card is faster and cheaper if you only need it for domestic flights. It costs less than a full passport book and serves the same purpose at TSA checkpoints. Both require you to appear in person for a new process, so plan ahead if your trip is coming up soon. If your flight is within the next few weeks and you do not have a passport, consider using a military ID, tribal ID, or enhanced driver's license instead if you have one of those.

State IDs that are not Real ID-compliant

Some states issue standard driver's licenses and ID cards that do not meet Real ID standards. These documents have a star or marking on Real ID-compliant versions, but the non-compliant versions do not. A non-Real ID state ID will not work for federal building access, but the TSA does accept some non-Real ID state IDs at airport security — the rules are different.

Check your state's DMV website or call to find out whether your current ID is Real ID-compliant. If it is not, you can either upgrade to a Real ID version (which usually costs a small fee and requires a visit to the DMV) or use one of the other acceptable documents listed above. Upgrading to Real ID takes a few weeks, so if you are flying soon, a passport or military ID is faster.

Real ID important date and what they mean for flying

The federal government set a important date for Real ID compliance, but that important date applies to federal building access and certain other federal facilities — not to flying. The TSA has stated it will continue to accept non-Real ID documents at airport security checkpoints. This means you do not have to upgrade to a Real ID to fly domestically, even after any important date passes.

However, Real ID-compliant IDs are becoming more common, and some states are phasing out non-compliant versions. If you plan to fly regularly, upgrading to a Real ID or obtaining a passport removes any uncertainty. For a single upcoming trip, using a passport, military ID, or other accepted document is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with just a photo from my phone or a printed copy of my ID?

No. The TSA requires a physical, government-issued ID document. A photo on your phone or a printed copy will not work. You must bring the actual ID card or passport.

Do I need a Real ID to fly to Hawaii or Alaska?

No. Hawaii and Alaska are part of the United States, so flights there are domestic. You need one of the TSA's accepted documents, but a Real ID is not required. A passport, military ID, or non-Real ID state ID that the TSA accepts will work.

What if my passport is expired?

An expired passport will not work at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. You will need to renew it or use a different accepted document. Passport renewal by mail takes four to six weeks; in-person renewal at a passport agency is faster but requires an appointment.

Can I use a school ID or work ID instead?

No. School IDs and work IDs are not on the TSA's list of acceptable documents. You must use a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID.

How far in advance should I get a passport if I want to fly?

Standard passport processing takes four to six weeks. If your trip is sooner, request expedited processing (two to three weeks, with an extra fee) or use a different accepted document you already have. If your flight is within two weeks, a passport may not arrive in time.