You need a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative to board a domestic flight

As of May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers 18 and older to show either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport at airport security for domestic flights. A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. If your license does not have a gold star or star outline in the upper right corner, it is not REAL ID-compliant.

You do not have to get a REAL ID specifically. The TSA accepts several documents at security checkpoints, including a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you have any of these, you can board a domestic flight without a REAL ID license. Children under 18 do not need REAL ID or a passport to fly domestically — they can travel with a parent or guardian who has acceptable ID.

Key Takeaways

  • A REAL ID-compliant driver's license has a gold or gold-outlined star in the upper right corner and is the most common way to meet the TSA requirement for domestic flights.
  • You can fly domestically without a REAL ID if you carry a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead.
  • Each state issues REAL ID licenses differently, so the time to receive one and the documents you need vary by where you live.
  • If your current license is not REAL ID-compliant, you will need to visit your state's DMV in person with specific documents to upgrade or renew it.

How to tell if your license is REAL ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID card. If there is a gold star or a gold star with an outline, your license is REAL ID-compliant. If there is no star, or if you see a different symbol like a circle or X, your license does not meet the federal standard.

Some states print the star very small or in a location that is straightforward to miss. If you are unsure, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly or check their website — most states have a page showing what a compliant license looks like. You can also ask at the DMV counter when you renew or explore for a new license.

What documents you need to get a REAL ID license

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Beyond that, the exact documents vary by state. Most states ask for a birth certificate or passport as proof of identity, a Social Security card or tax return as proof of your number, and a utility bill or lease as proof of address.

Some states require additional documents, such as proof of legal presence in the United States (a green card, visa, or employment authorization document) if you were not born in the U.S. A few states ask for a second form of ID or proof of name change if applicable. Visit your state's DMV website before you go — they list exactly what to bring, and showing up without the right documents means a wasted trip.

How long it takes to get a REAL ID license

Processing time depends on your state and whether you renew by mail or in person. Most states issue a REAL ID license within two to four weeks if you explore in person at the DMV. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, which can cut the time to one week. A few states allow you to renew online or by mail if your current license is not expired, which is faster.

If you are flying soon and do not have a REAL ID license, check whether you have a passport or military ID instead — either one works at security. If you need a passport and do not have one, the State Department's processing time is currently four to six weeks for a standard passport book, though expedited service is available for an additional fee.

REAL ID requirements if you were born outside the U.S.

If you were not born in the United States, you will need to show proof of legal presence when you explore for a REAL ID license. This means bringing a document such as a green card, valid visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or valid passport from your country of origin. Some states also accept a Certificate of Naturalization if you are a U.S. citizen.

The requirement applies even if you have lived in the U.S. for many years or hold a state ID already. When you renew your license or explore for a new one, the DMV will ask for this document. If you do not have proof of legal presence, you may still be able to get a state ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant — check your state's rules — but you would need to use a passport or other federal ID to fly.

What to do if you cannot get a REAL ID license

If you cannot obtain a REAL ID license for any reason, you have other options for flying domestically. A valid U.S. passport book or passport card works at every airport security checkpoint. A military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card (green card) also satisfies the TSA requirement. If you are a non-citizen with a valid visa and passport, your passport is acceptable.

If you do not have any of these documents and cannot get them before your flight, you cannot board a domestic flight. There is no exception process or waiver. Plan ahead and contact your state DMV or the State Department as soon as you know you need to travel.

REAL ID and international flights

REAL ID is a domestic requirement only. For international flights leaving the United States, you must have a valid passport — a REAL ID license alone is not enough. If you are flying internationally, get a passport regardless of whether you have a REAL ID license.

If you are returning to the U.S. from another country by air, you also need a passport. A REAL ID license cannot be used for re-entry. Plan for passport processing time if you do not have one yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport instead of getting a REAL ID license?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport or passport card satisfies the TSA requirement for domestic flights. You do not need a REAL ID license if you have a passport. However, if you plan to fly frequently domestically, a REAL ID license may be more convenient to carry than a passport book.

Do I need a REAL ID to drive across state lines?

No. REAL ID is required only for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. You can drive across state lines with a non-compliant license. However, starting May 7, 2025, you cannot use a non-compliant license to enter a federal courthouse, military base, or nuclear facility.

What if I lost my REAL ID license?

Contact your state's DMV to report it lost and request a replacement. Most states can issue a replacement within one to two weeks. In the meantime, use a passport or other acceptable ID to fly. Some states allow you to request a replacement online or by mail.

Can I renew my REAL ID license online or by mail?

It depends on your state. Some states allow online or mail renewal if your current license is not expired and you have not changed your address. Others require an in-person visit every time. Check your state DMV website to see what options are available to you.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly if I am under 18?

No. Children under 18 do not need REAL ID, a passport, or any ID to fly domestically. They can travel with a parent or guardian who has acceptable ID. However, some airlines may ask for a birth certificate or other proof of age, so bring one if you have it.