What You Need to Board a Domestic Flight

You do not need a Real ID to fly within the United States. A standard driver's license, passport, passport card, or military ID will work. Real ID is one option among several, not a requirement.

The confusion comes from a 2005 federal law that set security standards for state-issued IDs. Starting in May 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer accept a regular driver's license at airport security checkpoints — but that does not mean you must get a Real ID. You can use a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card instead.

If you do choose to upgrade to a Real ID driver's license, the process takes place at your state's DMV. You will need to bring documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and address. The cost and processing time vary by state, but most charge between $20 and $50 and take two to six weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard driver's license will stop working at TSA checkpoints in May 2025, but a passport or passport card works instead.
  • Real ID is optional — it is one of five document types the TSA accepts, not the only choice.
  • Getting a Real ID requires a trip to your state DMV with proof of identity, Social Security number, and address.
  • A passport or passport card is often faster to obtain than a Real ID if you do not already have one.

Documents the TSA Will Accept at Security Checkpoints

The TSA accepts five types of ID at domestic airport security. A Real ID driver's license or state ID is one. The other four are a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID (including dependent cards), and permanent resident card (green card). Tribal IDs issued by federally recognized tribes also work.

If you already have a passport, that is the simplest path — you do not need to do anything else. If you do not have a passport and do not want to get one, a Real ID driver's license is the most convenient option because you can use it for other purposes too, like entering federal buildings or boarding flights to Canada and Mexico.

A passport card is cheaper and faster than a full passport book and works for domestic flights, but it cannot be used for international air travel. It costs less than a Real ID in most states and can be obtained in four to six weeks through the State Department.

How to Get a Real ID at Your State DMV

To upgrade to a Real ID driver's license, visit your state's DMV in person — you cannot do this online or by mail. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, and a document showing your current address (a utility bill or lease works). Some states accept a passport as proof of identity instead of a birth certificate.

The fee ranges from $20 to $50 depending on your state. Processing time varies widely: some states issue Real IDs on the spot, while others take four to six weeks. Check your state DMV's website before you go to see what documents they specifically require and whether you need an appointment.

You will receive a Real ID driver's license with a gold star or circle in the upper right corner. This mark shows TSA officers that your ID meets federal security standards. The license itself works the same as a regular one for driving and identification purposes.

Timeline: When You Need to Act

Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will not accept a standard driver's license at airport security checkpoints. If you plan to fly domestically after that date, you will need one of the five accepted documents listed above.

If you are getting a Real ID, explore now if you want it before May 2025. Most states have long wait times, and some DMVs are booked weeks in advance. If you wait until April, you may not receive your Real ID in time. A passport or passport card can be obtained faster in many cases, so that may be a better option if you are short on time.

If you already have a passport, you have nothing to do. Your passport works at security checkpoints now and will continue to work after May 2025.

Real ID vs. Passport: Which Should You Get

A Real ID driver's license is useful if you drive and want a single document for both driving and federal purposes. It costs $20 to $50 and takes two to six weeks in most states. You must visit the DMV in person and bring original documents. After May 2025, it will be accepted at airport security, federal buildings, and military bases.

A passport book costs $130 to $165 and takes four to six weeks through the State Department (or two to three weeks expedited for an extra fee). It works for domestic and international flights, cruises, and travel to Canada and Mexico. You explore by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility, which is often faster than a DMV appointment.

A passport card costs $35 to $50 and takes four to six weeks. It works for domestic flights and land travel to Canada and Mexico, but not for international air travel. It is the cheapest option and fits in a wallet, but it cannot replace a passport book if you ever fly internationally.

If you already have a driver's license and do not travel internationally, a Real ID is the simplest upgrade. If you do not have a passport and might travel outside the U.S., a passport book is worth the extra cost. If you want the cheapest option and only fly domestically, a passport card is sufficient.

What Happens If You Show Up Without Acceptable ID

If you arrive at the airport after May 2025 with only a standard driver's license, the TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception process or way to verify your identity at the gate instead.

If this happens, you have two options: reschedule your flight for a date when you have acceptable ID, or go to a nearby passport acceptance facility or DMV to get one. Some airports have passport agencies nearby, but most do not. A Real ID from a DMV takes longer because of processing time, so this is not a practical same-day solution.

The TSA recommends checking your ID before you leave for the airport. If you are unsure whether your license is a Real ID, look for the gold star or circle in the upper right corner. If you do not see it, you will need a passport or passport card to fly after May 2025.

Real ID for Other Federal Purposes

Real ID is required for more than just flying. Starting May 7, 2025, you will also need it to enter federal buildings (like courthouses or Social Security offices), military bases, and nuclear power plants. A passport works for these purposes too.

If you work in a federal building or on a military base, check with your employer about their ID requirements. Some agencies have their own security clearance processes and may not accept a standard driver's license regardless of the TSA important date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport card instead of getting a Real ID?

Yes. A passport card works at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights and is often cheaper and faster to obtain than a Real ID. The only limitation is that it cannot be used for international air travel, so if you might fly outside the U.S., a full passport book is better.

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

No. A military ID, including dependent IDs, is accepted at TSA checkpoints. You do not need to get a Real ID driver's license.

What if my state has not issued Real IDs yet?

All 50 states now issue Real IDs. If your state's DMV website says otherwise, contact them directly to confirm the process. Some states call it by a different name, but all have a federally compliant option available.

Can I renew my driver's license as a Real ID by mail?

No. You must visit the DMV in person to upgrade to a Real ID. Some states allow regular license renewals by mail, but Real ID requires an in-person appointment with original documents.

Is a Real ID the same as a REAL ID?

Real ID is the federal standard; REAL ID is sometimes used as an acronym. They mean the same thing. Your state DMV will know what you are asking for if you say either one.