What the star means and who needs it

Yes, as of May 7, 2025, you need either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card (marked with a gold or black star in the upper right corner) or an acceptable alternative document to board a domestic flight in the United States. This applies to all passengers age 18 and older. If your ID does not have the star and you do not have an alternative document, the TSA will not let you through security.

The star itself is just a visual marker that your state's DMV has verified your identity documents and address against federal standards. It does not grant you any special privileges—it straightforward proves your ID meets the security requirements the federal government set for air travel.

If you do not have a REAL ID yet, you still have options to fly. The TSA accepts several documents in place of a REAL ID, which we cover in detail below.

Key Takeaways

  • A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card, marked with a star, has been required for domestic flights since May 7, 2025.
  • If your ID does not have the star, you can still fly using a passport, passport card, military ID, or other TSA-approved documents.
  • Getting a REAL ID requires visiting your state's DMV in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
  • Processing times vary by state; some issue REAL IDs on the spot, while others take several weeks.
  • International flights require a passport regardless of whether your driver's license has a star.

What documents the TSA accepts instead of a REAL ID

If you do not have a REAL ID star on your driver's license, you can still board a domestic flight with one of these documents:

  • A valid U.S. passport or passport card
  • A military ID (active duty, retired, or reserve)
  • A Department of Veterans Affairs ID
  • A Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)
  • A state-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL), which is different from a REAL ID
  • A Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
  • A Tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe

The passport is the most common backup. If you already have one, you do not need to get a REAL ID just to fly domestically—you can use the passport instead. However, if you are flying internationally, you will need a passport anyway, so a REAL ID does not replace it.

How to get a REAL ID at your state's DMV

Getting a REAL ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV. You cannot renew online or by mail and receive a REAL ID. You will need to bring three categories of documents:

Proof of identity: a current or expired passport, a birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a state ID. Proof of residency: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. Proof of Social Security number: a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a paystub.

Some states allow you to order documents online before your appointment, which can speed up the process. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list of acceptable documents and whether you can make an appointment in advance. Processing times vary widely: some states issue the REAL ID on the spot, while others mail it within two to four weeks.

The difference between REAL ID and enhanced driver's licenses

An enhanced driver's license (EDL) is not the same as a REAL ID, though both require an in-person visit to the DMV. An EDL is a state-issued ID that meets federal standards for land and sea border crossings (Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean) but is not the same as a REAL ID for air travel purposes.

If your license says "REAL ID compliant" or has a star, it works for domestic flights. If it says "Enhanced" or "EDL" but does not have the star, it does not meet the TSA's requirement for air travel—you would need to use one of the alternative documents listed above. Only a handful of states issue EDLs, so most people will be getting a standard REAL ID.

What happens if you show up without the right ID

If you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID star and without one of the acceptable alternatives, the TSA will not allow you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception process at the gate or at security.

If this happens, your options are to leave the airport, obtain an acceptable document, and rebook your flight, or to contact your airline about rebooking. Some airlines may waive rebooking fees if you explain the situation, but this is at their discretion. The best approach is to check your ID before you leave for the airport.

REAL ID requirements for minors and non-citizens

Children under 18 do not need a REAL ID to fly domestically. They can board with a school ID, a birth certificate, a passport, or even just a ticket confirmation if they are traveling with an adult. The adult traveling with them must have acceptable ID.

Non-citizens who are lawfully in the United States can get a REAL ID if they have a valid visa, a Permanent Resident Card, or another immigration document. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a REAL ID, but they may be able to use a Tribal ID or other state-issued document if their state offers it. Requirements vary by state, so contact your DMV directly if you are unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired REAL ID?

No. Your ID must be valid and not expired. If your REAL ID has expired, you will need to renew it at the DMV before you can use it for air travel. You can use an unexpired passport or other acceptable document instead while you wait for your renewal.

Do I need a REAL ID for international flights?

No. For international flights, you need a valid passport. A REAL ID is only for domestic flights. If you are flying internationally, bring your passport, not your driver's license.

What if my state hasn't issued me a REAL ID yet?

Visit your state's DMV website to see the current status. Some states began issuing REAL IDs years ago; others are still in the process. If your state has not issued them yet, use a passport or another acceptable document to fly. You can still get a REAL ID by visiting the DMV in person with the required documents.

Can I use a photo from my phone or a digital ID instead?

No. The TSA requires a physical ID document. Digital IDs and phone apps are not yet accepted at airport security, even if your state offers them. Bring your physical REAL ID, passport, or other acceptable document.

How much does a REAL ID cost?

Cost varies by state, typically ranging from $20 to $50 for a standard REAL ID driver's license. Some states charge extra if you are renewing early to get the REAL ID version. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.