Flying With a Temporary Real ID: What You Need to Know

Yes, you can use a temporary Real ID to fly domestically

A temporary Real ID — the paper document you receive while waiting for your physical card — works for domestic flights within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts it as valid identification at airport security checkpoints. You will need to show it alongside a secondary form of identification, such as a passport, state ID, or driver's license, depending on what your state issues.

The temporary document is valid for the length of time your state specifies, which typically ranges from 60 to 180 days. Check your temporary Real ID itself for the expiration date printed on it. If your flight is scheduled before that date expires, you can board a domestic flight with it.

International flights are different. If you are flying outside the United States, you will need a passport, passport card, or other federally approved travel document — a temporary Real ID will not work for international travel, even if it has not expired.

Key Takeaways

A temporary Real ID is accepted at TSA security checkpoints for domestic flights as long as it has not expired.
You must bring a second form of identification along with your temporary Real ID when you go through airport security.
Temporary Real IDs do not work for international flights; you will need a passport or passport card instead.
The expiration date on your temporary document tells you how long it remains valid for travel.
If your temporary Real ID expires before your flight, you will need a different form of federally accepted identification to board.

What counts as a secondary form of identification

The TSA requires two pieces of identification at the checkpoint. Your temporary Real ID is one; the second can be a valid passport, passport card, state-issued driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you do not have a second form of ID, you can still board — the TSA will conduct additional screening, which takes longer and may require you to arrive earlier than usual.

Bring whichever secondary ID you have available. The TSA agent at the checkpoint will tell you if there is a problem before you reach the scanner. If you are unsure whether a document will work, contact the TSA directly through their website or call ahead to your airport's TSA office.

How to read your temporary Real ID expiration date

Your temporary Real ID is a paper document, usually printed on cardstock. The expiration date appears on the front, typically in the upper right corner or near your name and photo. It is printed as a standard date — for example, 03/15/2024 means March 15, 2024.

Mark this date on your calendar. If your flight is scheduled after this date, your temporary Real ID will no longer be valid, and you will need to use a different form of identification. Some states allow you to renew your Real ID before the temporary one expires, so you may receive your physical card before the paper one runs out.

What happens if your temporary Real ID expires before your flight

If your temporary Real ID has expired by the time of your flight, the TSA will not accept it as valid identification. You will need to bring a different federally accepted ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or state driver's license. If you do not have any of these, you can still attempt to board, but the TSA will conduct additional screening that can take 30 minutes or longer.

If you are close to your expiration date and expecting your physical Real ID card in the mail, check your state's DMV website to see if you can track the card's status. Some states allow you to print a temporary extension or pick up your card early at a local office. Contact your state DMV at least two weeks before your flight to understand your options.

Traveling with a temporary Real ID: what to bring and when to arrive

Bring your temporary Real ID and a second form of identification in a place where you can reach them quickly at the security checkpoint. Have both documents ready before you reach the TSA agent — do not wait until you are at the scanner to search your bag.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight. If you are traveling with a temporary Real ID and do not have a second form of identification, plan to arrive three hours early to account for additional screening time. Check your airline's website for their specific arrival recommendations, as some require passengers to check in earlier than others.

Real ID requirements for different types of flights

A temporary Real ID works only for domestic flights — those that depart from and land within the United States. This includes flights to Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, which are considered domestic for Real ID purposes.

For flights to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or any other country outside U.S. territory, you must have a passport or passport card. A temporary Real ID, even if valid, will not be accepted. If you are unsure whether your destination is considered domestic, check your airline's website or call the TSA.

If your temporary Real ID is lost or damaged

If your temporary Real ID is lost, stolen, or damaged before your flight, contact your state's DMV when ready. Many states can issue a replacement temporary document within a few days, though some may require you to visit an office in person. Explain that you have an upcoming flight and ask about expedited replacement options.

If you cannot get a replacement in time, bring whatever other federally accepted identification you have — a passport, military ID, or state driver's license. The TSA will accept any of these for domestic flights. If you have none of these documents, contact the TSA's ID verification service before your flight to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly internationally with a temporary Real ID?

No. International flights require a passport or passport card, regardless of whether your temporary Real ID is still valid. A temporary Real ID is only for domestic travel within the United States and its territories.

Do I need both my temporary Real ID and a second ID, or can I use just one?

You need both. The TSA requires two forms of identification at the checkpoint. Your temporary Real ID counts as one; you must bring a second form such as a passport, state driver's license, or military ID. If you only have the temporary Real ID, you can still board but will undergo additional screening.

What if my temporary Real ID expires the same day as my flight?

An ID that expires on the day of your flight is considered expired and will not be accepted by the TSA. If your flight is on the expiration date, bring a different form of federally accepted identification. Contact your state DMV to see if you can receive your physical Real ID card or a replacement temporary document before your flight.

How long does additional TSA screening take if I don't have a second ID?

Additional screening typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, though it can vary depending on how busy the airport is that day. Plan to arrive three hours early if you only have a temporary Real ID and no secondary identification. This gives you time to complete the extra screening and still reach your gate on time.

Can I use my temporary Real ID if it's laminated or in a plastic sleeve?

Yes, you can protect your temporary Real ID with a plastic sleeve or lamination. The TSA will still be able to read it at the checkpoint. Just make sure the document itself is not damaged and the information is clearly visible.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.