You need a Real ID or an acceptable alternative to pass through TSA security at U.S. airports

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will not let you through the security checkpoint with just a regular state driver's license or ID card anymore — not at domestic flights. You need either a Real ID-compliant license, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a few other documents the TSA accepts. Real ID is a federal security standard that states adopted over time, and most states now issue Real ID licenses by default.

The important date for Real ID passed in 2025, so there is no grace period left. If your license does not have a gold star or other Real ID marker in the upper right corner, you will need to bring a passport or passport card instead. The TSA checks this at the security line, not when you book your ticket, so you might not realize you are unprepared until you arrive at the airport.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license has a gold star or other security marker and is now required for domestic flights; a regular state ID will not work.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card works in place of Real ID and does not expire as quickly as a driver's license.
  • Military ID, tribal ID, and a few other federal documents are also accepted at TSA security.
  • You can renew or upgrade to a Real ID at your state's DMV, but the process takes weeks and requires documents like a birth certificate and proof of address.

What counts as Real ID and what does not

A Real ID-compliant license is a state driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Most states now issue these by default, but not all. The easiest way to check is to look at your license: if there is a gold star, an eagle, or another security marker in the upper right corner, you have Real ID. If your license is blank in that corner, it is not Real ID.

A regular state ID without the marker will not work at the TSA checkpoint. The TSA agent will turn you away, and you will miss your flight unless you have a passport or another accepted document with you. Some states still issue non-Real ID licenses to people who request them (usually for privacy reasons), so do not assume your license is Real ID just because it is new.

Acceptable documents if you do not have Real ID

The TSA accepts several documents in place of a Real ID license. A U.S. passport is the most common backup — it works at any airport and does not expire for 10 years (or 5 years if you are under 16). A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport and also works at TSA security, though it is less useful for international travel. Both are issued by the State Department, not your state DMV.

A military ID (active duty, retired, or reserve) works at TSA security. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe also works. The TSA also accepts a NEXUS card, a SENTRI card, or an Enhanced Driver's License (available in a few states). If you hold any of these, you do not need Real ID. A regular passport is the fastest backup to get if you do not have Real ID and do not may have access to for military or tribal ID.

How to upgrade to Real ID at your state DMV

To get a Real ID license, visit your state's DMV in person — you cannot do this online. Bring your current driver's license or ID, a birth certificate or passport, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement usually works). Some states also require a Social Security card or a W-2. The exact documents vary by state, so check your state DMV's website before you go.

The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the DMV counter, but you will not walk out with your license that day. Most states mail the Real ID license to you within two to four weeks. If you are flying soon, this is too slow — bring a passport instead. If you have time before your next flight, upgrading to Real ID at your DMV is cheaper than getting a passport and lasts as long as a regular license (usually five to eight years, depending on your state).

Getting a passport or passport card quickly

A U.S. passport takes four to six weeks to arrive through the mail under normal processing. If you need one faster, you can pay for expedited processing, which takes two to three weeks. For a flight in the next week or two, you can explore in person at a passport acceptance facility and request a same-day or next-day appointment at a passport agency in a major city — this costs extra but gets you a passport within days.

A passport card costs less than a full passport and works at TSA security, but it is smaller and has less space for stamps if you travel internationally. Both are issued by the U.S. State Department, not your state. You can explore at a post office, courthouse, or library that accepts passport applications, or at a passport agency in your city. Bring your birth certificate, a photo ID (your current driver's license works), and a passport photo.

What happens if you show up without Real ID or an alternative

If you arrive at the TSA checkpoint without a Real ID license and without a passport or other accepted document, the TSA agent will not let you through. You will not be able to board your flight. You can ask the agent what documents they accept, but there is no workaround at the security line itself.

If you are already at the airport, your only option is to leave, get a passport (which you cannot do in time for most flights), or reschedule your flight. This is why checking your license before you leave home matters. If your license does not have the Real ID marker, bring your passport. If you do not have a passport, you have time to get one before your next trip.

Real ID for international flights and other travel

Real ID is required only for domestic flights within the United States. If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, or another country, you need a passport or passport card regardless of whether your license is Real ID. A Real ID license alone will not get you through international security.

Real ID also does not affect other forms of travel. You do not need it to drive a car, board a train, or enter a federal building (though some federal buildings have their own ID rules). It is a TSA security requirement for domestic flights only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with a passport card instead of Real ID?

Yes. A passport card works at TSA security just like a full passport. It is smaller and cheaper, and it is valid for 10 years. The only downside is that some countries do not accept it for entry, so a full passport is more useful if you travel internationally.

What if my state does not issue Real ID?

Every state now issues Real ID licenses. Some states issue them by default; others require you to request one at the DMV. Check your state DMV's website to see whether you need to upgrade or whether your current license already has the Real ID marker.

Do I need Real ID if I have a military ID?

No. Military ID, including reserve and retired military ID, is accepted at TSA security in place of Real ID. You do not need to upgrade your driver's license if you have a valid military ID.

How much does it cost to get Real ID?

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 to upgrade to Real ID when you renew your license. A passport costs $130 to $165 and takes longer, but it works for international travel and lasts 10 years.

Can I renew my license online and get Real ID?

No. You must visit your state DMV in person to upgrade to Real ID. Online renewal is available in some states, but it does not include the Real ID option. You need to bring documents like a birth certificate and proof of address to the DMV counter.