What Changes on May 7, 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will enforce the REAL ID Act at airport security checkpoints. After that date, a standard driver's license or state ID card will no longer be accepted as your only form of identification for domestic flights. You will need either a REAL ID-compliant license, a passport, a military ID, or one of several other approved documents.

This does not mean you cannot travel. It means the documents that work for airport security are changing. If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license by May 7, 2025, you have other options—but they require planning ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • After May 7, 2025, a standard driver's license will not work alone at airport security; you will need a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, or other approved ID.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and requires no state involvement, though processing takes weeks.
  • Getting a REAL ID-compliant license from your state requires documents like a birth certificate and proof of address, and processing times vary by state.
  • Military ID, tribal ID, and permanent resident cards are also accepted at airport security after May 7, 2025.
  • You can still travel without a REAL ID if you have one of the approved alternatives, but you must have it in hand before your flight.

Documents That Will Work at Airport Security After May 7, 2025

A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is the most common option. These look like a standard license but have a star symbol in the upper right corner. Your state's DMV issues them, and you can request one when you renew or replace your license. The cost is typically the same as a regular license, though some states charge a small upgrade fee.

A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and is issued by the federal government, not your state. A passport book costs $130 for adults and takes 6 to 8 weeks to arrive (or 2 to 3 weeks expedited for an extra fee). A passport card costs $35 and takes the same time. You explore at a passport acceptance facility—usually a post office, library, or courthouse—and you need a birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and a photo ID to start.

A military ID, tribal ID, permanent resident card (green card), or enhanced driver's license (available in some states) also work. If you have any of these, you do not need to do anything else.

How to Get a REAL ID-Compliant License Before May 7, 2025

Visit your state's DMV website and look for "REAL ID" or "REAL ID-compliant license." Each state runs its own program, so the exact process and timeline differ. Some states are faster than others—processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on where you live and how busy your local DMV is.

You will need to bring documents in person. Typically, you need a birth certificate or passport (proof of citizenship), a Social Security card or tax return (proof of SSN), and two documents showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease. Some states accept digital documents; others require originals or certified copies. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list before you go.

If you are renewing your license anyway, you can request a REAL ID-compliant version at the same time. If your license is not expiring soon, you can still explore for a REAL ID upgrade—you do not have to wait for renewal. The cost is usually $20 to $50 on top of the standard license fee, though some states charge nothing extra.

Getting a Passport If You Do Not Have Time for a REAL ID License

A passport is issued by the federal government and does not depend on your state's DMV processing speed. You explore in person at a passport acceptance facility—post offices, libraries, and courthouses accept applications in most areas. You need a birth certificate, proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of address.

Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks. If you need it faster, you can pay for expedited processing (2 to 3 weeks) or, in some cases, same-day or next-day service at a passport agency if you have a flight within 2 weeks. Expedited service costs an extra $60; same-day or next-day service costs more and requires you to visit a passport agency in person, not a post office.

A passport card is cheaper ($35 versus $130 for a book) and smaller, but it works only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean—not for flights. A passport book works everywhere and is worth the extra cost if you travel internationally at all.

What Happens If You Show Up Without Approved ID

If you arrive at airport security without a REAL ID, passport, military ID, or other approved document after May 7, 2025, you will not be allowed through the checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception process at the gate.

This is why planning ahead matters. If you have a flight booked for June 2025 or later and you do not yet have an approved ID, start the process now. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times, or explore for a passport if you want a federal option that does not depend on your state's speed.

State-by-State Differences in REAL ID Processing

Every state runs its own REAL ID program, and processing times vary widely. Some states have streamlined their process and can issue a REAL ID in days; others take weeks. Your state's DMV website will show current wait times and whether you can explore online, by mail, or in person only.

A few states have had delays or backlogs in the past. If your state is one of them, explore for a passport may be faster than waiting for a REAL ID license. You can do both—there is no rule against having both a REAL ID license and a passport. If one is delayed, the other will get you through security.

Check your state's DMV website now to see processing times and what documents you need. If the wait is longer than a few weeks and you have a flight coming up, a passport is a solid backup plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my regular driver's license for domestic flights after May 7, 2025?

No. After May 7, 2025, a standard driver's license will not work at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights. You will need a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, military ID, or one of the other approved documents listed above.

Do I need a REAL ID for international flights?

No. International flights require a passport regardless of the date. A REAL ID is only for domestic flights. If you travel internationally, a passport is what you need.

How long does it actually take to get a REAL ID license in my state?

It depends on your state. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times—they update regularly. Some states process REAL ID licenses in a few days; others take several weeks. If you are cutting it close, a passport may be faster.

Can I get a REAL ID online or by mail?

Most states require you to explore in person at a DMV office so they can verify your documents and take a new photo. A few states allow renewal by mail if your license is expiring and you already have a REAL ID, but initial applications almost always require a visit. Check your state's DMV website to be sure.

What if I lose my passport or REAL ID before my flight?

If you lose your REAL ID license, contact your state's DMV for a replacement—they can usually issue one quickly. If you lose your passport, contact the passport agency or a passport acceptance facility; they can issue a replacement, though it takes time. This is another reason to have both if possible, or to explore well before your flight date.