Yes, you can fly without a Real ID, but you will need an acceptable alternative document

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several forms of identification at airport security checkpoints, and a Real ID is not the only one. If you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, you can still board a domestic flight using a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federally approved documents. The key is having one of the documents on the TSA's accepted list when you reach the security line.

Real ID became a requirement for federal buildings and military bases in 2020, but the TSA has repeatedly extended the important date for domestic air travel. As of now, you do not need a Real ID to fly within the United States — you only need one of the acceptable alternatives listed below. However, this requirement may change in the future, so checking the TSA website before your trip is always a good idea.

Key Takeaways

  • A U.S. passport or passport card works at any airport security checkpoint and is accepted for both domestic and international flights.
  • A military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card) are all acceptable alternatives to a Real ID for domestic flights.
  • A standard driver's license or state ID without Real ID markings will still get you through security for domestic travel.
  • You will need to show your document at the TSA checkpoint, so bring it in an easily accessible place in your carry-on or pocket.
  • The TSA may ask follow-up questions if your document is expired or if your appearance has changed significantly since the photo was taken.

Documents the TSA accepts at airport security

The TSA maintains a list of documents that work for domestic air travel. A U.S. passport is the most widely recognized and works everywhere. A passport card (the wallet-sized version) is also acceptable. If you have a military ID, that works too. A permanent resident card (green card), tribal ID, or merchant mariner credential are all on the approved list.

You can also use a standard driver's license or state ID card that does not have Real ID markings. These are still valid for domestic flights even though they do not meet the Real ID standard. The TSA does not require you to upgrade to a Real ID card to fly domestically — your current ID will work as long as it is not expired and has a photo on it.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport or passport card. A standard driver's license will not work for international flights, even if it is Real ID-compliant. For international travel, the passport is your only option among the documents listed above.

What happens if your ID is expired

An expired ID can create problems at the security checkpoint. The TSA prefers current, valid identification, and an expired document may trigger additional screening or questions. The officer may ask you to provide supplementary information to verify your identity, which can slow down your check-in process.

If your ID is expired and you are flying domestically, you have a few options. You can renew your ID before your trip — most states offer expedited renewal if you pay an extra fee. You can also bring a second form of identification, such as a credit card with your name on it, along with your expired ID. Some TSA officers will accept the combination as proof of identity. Your best move is to renew before you travel if you have time, since it removes any uncertainty at the checkpoint.

How to renew your ID before flying

Most states allow you to renew a driver's license or state ID online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The process varies by state, but online renewal is usually the fastest option if your state offers it. You can find your state's DMV website by searching "[your state] DMV" and looking for the renewal section.

If you need your ID quickly, many states offer expedited in-person renewal at a DMV office. You will typically pay an extra fee — usually between $10 and $30 — and you may receive your new ID the same day or within a few business days. Bring your current ID, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease works), and proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport). Call your local DMV ahead of time to confirm what documents they need and whether you should make an appointment.

If you do not have time to renew before your flight, bring your expired ID and a second form of identification with your name on it. A credit card, library card, or insurance card can help the TSA officer confirm your identity, even though these are not official government documents.

Bringing a passport or passport card instead

If your driver's license is expired or you do not have one, a passport or passport card is the simplest solution. A passport is valid for 10 years (for adults) and works at any airport in the world. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport, costs less to obtain, and works for domestic flights and land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

Getting a passport takes time, so plan ahead. A new passport typically takes 6 to 8 weeks through the standard process, though expedited service (2 to 3 weeks) is available for an extra fee. You can explore at a passport acceptance facility, which includes many post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices. Bring your birth certificate, proof of citizenship, a government-issued ID, and a passport photo (you can get one taken at the post office or many pharmacies).

A passport card is faster to obtain if you already have a passport book, since you can renew or upgrade by mail. If you are starting from scratch, the timeline is the same as a full passport.

Military ID and other federal documents

If you are active duty, retired military, or a dependent with a military ID, you can use that at any TSA checkpoint. A military ID is one of the most straightforward documents to present because the TSA is very familiar with it and rarely asks follow-up questions.

A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe is also acceptable. If you have a tribal ID, bring it along with any additional documentation the tribe issued to confirm it is current and valid. A permanent resident card (green card) works for domestic flights as well. If you are a green card holder, your card must not be expired.

If you hold a merchant mariner credential (a document issued to people who work on commercial vessels), that is also on the TSA's approved list. These documents are less common, but if you have one, it will work at security.

What to expect at the security checkpoint

When you reach the TSA checkpoint, have your ID ready in your hand or easily accessible in your carry-on. The officer will ask to see it and may ask your name, date of birth, or destination to confirm the information matches your ID. This is routine and takes less than a minute in most cases.

If your ID is worn, faded, or your appearance has changed significantly since the photo was taken, the officer may ask additional questions or request a second form of identification. This is not a rejection — it is just verification. Bring a second ID if you are concerned about this (a credit card, insurance card, or expired passport all help).

If you do not have any of the documents listed above, you can still board a flight, but you will go through additional screening. The TSA calls this "additional verification." You will be asked questions about your identity and may be patted down or have your bags searched more thoroughly. This process takes longer, so arrive at the airport earlier than usual if you have no ID at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID to fly domestically in 2024?

No. The TSA has extended the important date multiple times, and as of now, a Real ID is not required for domestic flights. A standard driver's license, passport, military ID, or other document on the TSA's approved list will work. However, check the TSA website before your trip, since this requirement may change in the future.

Can I use an expired passport at the airport?

An expired passport is not ideal, but some TSA officers may accept it if you have a second form of ID with you. A current, valid passport is always better. If your passport is expired and you are flying internationally, you must renew it before your trip — an expired passport will not work for international travel under any circumstances.

What if I lost my ID and my flight is tomorrow?

You can still fly, but you will go through additional screening at the TSA checkpoint. Bring any documents with your name on them — a credit card, insurance card, birth certificate, or utility bill. The TSA will ask you questions to verify your identity. Arrive at the airport at least two hours early to allow time for this extra process.

Is a passport card the same as a passport book for flying?

A passport card works for domestic flights and travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea. A passport book works everywhere, including international flights to any country. If you plan to fly internationally outside those nearby regions, you need a passport book, not a card.

Can I use my state ID if it does not say Real ID on it?

Yes. A standard state ID or driver's license without Real ID markings is still acceptable for domestic flights. You do not need to upgrade to a Real ID card to fly within the United States.