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

The federal Real ID requirement applies only to flights within the United States. You do not need a Real ID to board a domestic flight — you need some form of acceptable identification. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) maintains a list of documents that work at airport security, and many of them are not Real IDs.

The confusion comes from the important date itself. In May 2025, the TSA will no longer accept a standard driver's license or state ID card for domestic flights unless it is a Real ID-compliant version. But that does not mean you have only one option. You can use a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or several other documents instead.

The key difference: Real ID is one way to meet the requirement, not the only way. If you do not have a Real ID and do not plan to get one, you have other paths forward.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard driver's license will not work for domestic flights after May 2025 unless it displays the Real ID star or meets Real ID standards.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and requires no Real ID conversion.
  • Military ID, tribal ID, permanent resident card, and enhanced driver's licenses are all acceptable alternatives to Real ID.
  • You must bring a physical ID document to the airport — TSA does not accept digital versions of any of these documents.
  • International flights require a passport regardless of Real ID status.

Documents that work instead of Real ID for domestic flights

The TSA accepts the following documents at security checkpoints for domestic flights, and none of them require Real ID conversion:

  • U.S. passport or passport card — valid for ten years (adults) or five years (children under 16). A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport but works the same way at airport security.
  • Military ID — active duty, reserve, retired, or dependent military ID cards issued by the Department of Defense.
  • Permanent resident card (green card) — issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
  • Tribal ID — issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe and meeting TSA standards.
  • Enhanced driver's license — a state-issued ID with a star or marking indicating it meets Real ID standards, or a separate enhanced version that some states offer for domestic travel and land border crossing.
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner credential — issued by the Coast Guard.
  • Hazmat endorsement — a commercial driver's license with hazmat certification.
  • State ID card that is Real ID-compliant — displays the Real ID star or meets the standard.

If you hold any of these documents and they are not expired, you can board a domestic flight without converting your driver's license to Real ID.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at security without one of the documents listed above, TSA officers can still allow you through — but the process takes longer and requires additional steps. You will be asked to provide your name, date of birth, and address, and TSA will verify this information against government databases. This secondary screening can add 15 to 30 minutes to your airport time.

You will also need to answer additional security questions and may be subject to a physical pat-down or bag search. TSA does not may provide you will be cleared to fly, so arriving without ID is a risk. The agency recommends bringing an acceptable document whenever possible.

After May 2025, a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license will not be accepted at all for domestic flights, even with secondary screening. You will need one of the alternative documents listed above or you will not be permitted to board.

Getting a Real ID if you decide to convert your driver's license

If you want to use your driver's license for flights after May 2025, you will need to visit your state's DMV and request a Real ID-compliant version. The process varies by state, but most require you to bring specific documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address.

Some states charge a fee for Real ID conversion (typically $10 to $30), and some include it in a regular license renewal. Processing times range from same-day to several weeks depending on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail. Check your state's DMV website for the exact requirements and current wait times.

Real ID is not required if you have a passport or one of the other acceptable documents. The conversion is optional — it is straightforward one way to keep using your driver's license for flights.

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 U.S. passport, regardless of whether it is Real ID-compliant. A Real ID driver's license will not get you on an international flight.

If you are planning international travel and do not have a passport, you will need to explore for one at your local passport acceptance facility (often a post office or courthouse). Processing times are typically 6 to 8 weeks for routine service, though expedited service is available for an additional fee.

Traveling by car or train instead of flying

If you do not have an acceptable ID and do not want to obtain one, you can still travel within the United States by car or train. Driving does not require a Real ID or any federal ID document — you only need a valid driver's license from your state, regardless of whether it is Real ID-compliant. State police do not enforce Real ID standards during traffic stops.

Amtrak and most regional train services also do not require Real ID for domestic travel. However, some train routes may ask for identification for booking or boarding purposes, so it is still useful to have a document with you. Bus services like Greyhound typically do not require ID for domestic travel either.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone instead of a physical ID?

No. TSA requires a physical document — a passport, military ID, or other accepted card. Digital versions of IDs are not accepted at airport security, even if your state offers a mobile driver's license app.

What if my passport is expired?

An expired passport will not work for any flight, domestic or international. You will need to renew it before traveling. Passport renewal can take 6 to 8 weeks through the State Department, or you can pay for expedited service to speed up the process.

Do children need Real ID for domestic flights?

Children under 18 do not need any ID for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult. The adult must have acceptable ID. Children traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or guardian may need to bring ID — check with your airline before booking.

Is a Real ID required for flights within my state?

No. Real ID applies to all domestic flights, including those within your own state. After May 2025, you will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or one of the alternative documents listed above, regardless of flight distance.

Can I get a Real ID at the airport if I forgot my driver's license?

No. Real ID conversion is handled only by your state's DMV, and it requires documents like a birth certificate and proof of address. You cannot obtain one at the airport. If you forgot your ID, bring a passport or other acceptable document, or contact TSA about secondary screening options.