Yes, you can fly without Real ID, but you will need an acceptable alternative form of identification

The federal Real ID requirement does not mean you cannot board a domestic flight without it. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several other forms of identification at airport security checkpoints. What changed in 2025 is that a standard state driver's license or ID card no longer works on its own — you must bring either a Real ID-compliant document or one of the alternatives listed below.

The key difference: Real ID is one option among several. If you do not have it, you have other paths forward. The choice depends on what documents you already have and how soon you are flying.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid passport, passport card, or enhanced driver's license all work at TSA checkpoints without Real ID.
  • Military ID, tribal ID, and permanent resident cards are also accepted alternatives for domestic flights.
  • A standard state driver's license without Real ID markings will not pass TSA screening as of 2025.
  • Getting a passport takes four to six weeks through routine processing, or one to two weeks with expedited service.
  • An enhanced driver's license from your state DMV may be faster than Real ID if your state offers it.

Documents that work at TSA checkpoints instead of Real ID

The TSA accepts the following documents for domestic air travel: a valid U.S. passport, passport card, enhanced driver's license, military ID (active duty or retired), Department of Defense ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, permanent resident card (green card), and merchant mariner credential. Each of these satisfies the federal identification requirement without Real ID.

A passport is the most portable option if you travel internationally or plan to fly often. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport but works only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean — it does not work for air travel. An enhanced driver's license, available in some states, combines state ID with federal security features and costs less than a passport.

Military personnel should bring their military ID. If you are retired or a dependent, your military ID remains valid. Tribal members with a federally recognized tribal ID can use that instead. Permanent residents should bring their green card.

How long it takes to get a passport if you do not have one

A new passport through routine processing takes four to six weeks from the time the State Department receives your process. Expedited processing takes two to three weeks and costs extra. If you are flying within two weeks, expedited service may not be fast enough — you would need to use one of the other accepted documents or reschedule your flight.

You explore for a passport at a passport acceptance facility, usually your local post office, courthouse, or library. You need a completed process form (DS-11 for a new passport), proof of citizenship (birth certificate or naturalization papers), a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo. Fees vary but typically run $130 to $165 for a book passport plus execution fees.

If you already have a passport that expired less than five years ago, you may be able to renew it by mail, which is faster and cheaper than explore for a new one. Check the State Department website to see if you meet the renewal requirements.

Enhanced driver's licenses as a faster alternative

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is a state-issued ID with extra security features that meets federal Real ID standards and works at TSA checkpoints. Not all states offer them — currently about 17 states issue enhanced licenses. If your state does, getting one may be faster than waiting for a passport.

You explore at your state's DMV with proof of citizenship, a Social Security number, and proof of residency. Processing time varies by state but often takes two to four weeks. The cost is typically $20 to $50 more than a standard license renewal. Call your state DMV or check their website to confirm whether they issue enhanced licenses and what documents you need.

An enhanced license works for domestic flights and also for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. If you are renewing your driver's license anyway, upgrading to an enhanced version may cost only slightly more than a standard renewal.

What happens if you show up without an accepted document

If you arrive at the airport without Real ID or one of the accepted alternatives, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception process or override at the gate.

Your options at that point are limited: reschedule your flight for a date when you have an accepted document, or leave the airport and return with one. Some travelers have driven home to retrieve a passport or military ID, but this only works if you live close to the airport and have time before your flight.

The best approach is to check what you have before you book. If you do not have Real ID, a passport, military ID, or another accepted document, plan to get one before your travel date.

Real ID versus other documents: what the differences mean for you

Real ID is a state driver's license or ID card with a gold star or other marking that shows it meets federal security standards. It is not required — it is straightforward one option. The federal requirement is that you bring some form of acceptable identification, and Real ID is the easiest option for people who already have a state driver's license.

If you do not have Real ID, you are not behind. You are straightforward using a different acceptable document. A passport is actually more widely recognized than Real ID because it works internationally. Military ID is equally valid. The TSA does not prefer one over another — they all satisfy the requirement.

The main practical difference is convenience. If you drive and have a Real ID license, you do not need to carry anything else. If you use a passport instead, you need to remember to bring it. If you have military ID, that works the same way Real ID does. Choose based on what you already have and what makes sense for your travel habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my expired passport at TSA security?

No. Your passport must be valid — not expired — to work at TSA checkpoints. An expired passport will not get you through security. If your passport expired, you need to renew it before you fly, or use a different accepted document like military ID or an enhanced driver's license.

Does my passport card work for flying?

No. A passport card is only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It does not work for air travel. You need a full passport book, not a card, to fly domestically or internationally.

What if I have a green card but no other ID?

A green card (permanent resident card) is an accepted document at TSA checkpoints. Bring it with you to the airport. You do not need Real ID or a passport if you have a valid green card.

Can I fly if I am still waiting for my Real ID?

Yes, as long as you have one of the other accepted documents: a passport, military ID, enhanced driver's license, green card, or tribal ID. You do not have to wait for Real ID. Use what you have.

How do I know if my state driver's license is Real ID compliant?

Real ID licenses have a gold star, gold circle, or other marking in the upper right corner. If your license does not have this marking, it is not Real ID compliant and will not work at TSA checkpoints as of 2025. Check your license or contact your state DMV to confirm.