You cannot fly domestically without Real ID or an acceptable alternative after May 7, 2025

The federal important date for Real ID compliance is May 7, 2025. After that date, a standard driver's license or state ID card will not be enough to board a domestic flight in the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, a passport, a military ID, or one of several other federally approved documents.

This does not mean you cannot fly — it means you need the right document at the security checkpoint. If you show up with an old-style driver's license after May 7, TSA will turn you away, and you will miss your flight. The time to get a Real ID is now, because state DMVs are already processing high volumes of requests, and wait times are growing.

Key Takeaways

  • After May 7, 2025, a standard driver's license will not work for domestic flights; you must have Real ID, a passport, military ID, or another federally approved document.
  • Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card with a gold star or marking that shows it meets federal security standards; you get it from your state's DMV.
  • Getting Real ID requires you to visit the DMV in person with documents like a birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security card — you cannot do it online.
  • If you have a valid passport, military ID, or tribal ID, you can fly without Real ID even after the important date.
  • International flights already require a passport and are not affected by the Real ID important date.

What counts as an acceptable document after May 7

The TSA accepts several documents at security checkpoints for domestic flights. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is the most common option. You can also use a valid U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a Department of Defense ID, a tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, a permanent resident card (green card), or a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential.

If you already have a passport, you do not need to get Real ID — your passport works for both domestic and international flights. If you do not have a passport and do not want to get one, Real ID is your next option. Military families and federal employees should check whether their existing military or federal ID already meets the requirement.

How to get Real ID at your state DMV

Real ID is issued by your state's DMV, not by the federal government. You must visit the DMV in person; there is no online or mail-in option. Bring the documents your state requires — this usually includes a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

Each state has slightly different requirements and fees. Some states charge $20 to $30 for a Real ID; others bundle it into a standard license renewal. Check your state DMV's website for the exact list of documents and the current fee. Many states now let you make an appointment online to reduce wait times, so book ahead rather than walking in.

Processing time varies by state. Some DMVs issue Real ID on the spot; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Because demand is high and the May 7 important date is approaching, plan to visit the DMV soon. If you wait until April, you risk missing the important date.

What happens if you show up without the right document

If you arrive at the airport after May 7 with a standard driver's license and no other acceptable document, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception for people who were "almost ready" to get Real ID or who forgot their passport at home.

TSA does allow you to use a secondary form of ID — such as a credit card or Social Security card — to verify your identity if you forgot your primary ID, but this only works if you have time for additional screening and if you can prove your identity through other means. It is not a reliable backup. The safest approach is to have your Real ID, passport, or other approved document in your wallet before you travel.

Real ID does not affect international travel

International flights have always required a passport, and that has not changed. Real ID is only for domestic flights. If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere outside the United States, you still need a valid passport. Real ID will not work for international travel, even though it works for domestic flights.

If you travel internationally, getting a passport is your only option. Passport processing times vary — routine service takes several weeks, and expedited service costs more but is faster. If you travel internationally and also fly domestically, a passport covers both, so you do not need Real ID.

State-by-state differences in Real ID requirements

Every state issues Real ID, but the documents you need to bring and the fees you pay vary. Some states accept a birth certificate; others require a passport or certified copy of your birth certificate. Some states charge a small fee; others include it in your license renewal. A few states have extended the important date for their residents, though the federal TSA important date remains May 7, 2025.

Visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID" to find the exact requirements, fees, and current wait times. If you live in a state with long DMV wait times, start the process when ready. If you are moving to a new state, you may be able to get Real ID in your new state's DMV, but check whether you need to establish residency first.

What to bring to the DMV for Real ID

Bring originals or certified copies of documents — photocopies usually do not work. You will need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or passport card), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). A driver's license or state ID can serve as proof of identity if it is still valid.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID if you have one. Bring your Social Security card if you have it; if not, bring a document that shows your number. Do not bring originals of documents you cannot replace easily — the DMV will return them, but bring certified copies when possible. Call your state DMV ahead of time if you are unsure whether a specific document will work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly if I have an expired passport but no Real ID?

No. TSA requires a valid (non-expired) document. An expired passport will not work, and neither will an expired driver's license. You will need to renew your passport or get Real ID before you can fly. Passport renewal is faster than getting Real ID if your passport is only slightly expired.

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

No. A valid military ID or Department of Defense ID is accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. You do not need Real ID if your military ID is current. Check with your base or military personnel office if you are unsure whether your ID meets the requirement.

What if my state DMV is very slow and I cannot get Real ID before May 7?

Get a passport instead. Passport processing is handled separately from the DMV and may have shorter wait times in your area. A passport works for both domestic and international flights and does not depend on your state's Real ID rollout. Expedited passport service is available for an additional fee if you need it quickly.

Does Real ID work for flying to Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Yes. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are U.S. territories, so flights there are considered domestic. Real ID, a passport, military ID, or another approved document will work. You do not need a passport for these destinations, though having one does not hurt.

Can I renew my driver's license online and get Real ID at the same time?

Not in most states. Real ID requires an in-person visit to the DMV because you must show original documents and verify your identity face-to-face. Some states let you renew a standard driver's license online, but if you want Real ID, you must go to the DMV. Check your state's website to confirm the process in your area.