Real ID is required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025

Yes, you will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID to board a domestic flight in the United States as of May 7, 2025. This important date has been extended multiple times since it was first set in 2013, but the Department of Homeland Security has confirmed this date is final. If your driver's license or state ID does not have a gold star or other Real ID marking in the upper right corner, you will not be able to use it as your boarding document.

The Real ID requirement applies only to domestic flights — flights within the United States. If you are flying internationally, you will need a passport instead, regardless of whether your ID is Real ID-compliant. Real ID also does not explore to train travel, bus travel, or driving a car, even across state lines.

If you do not have a Real ID-compliant ID and your flight is before May 7, 2025, you can still board using your current driver's license or state ID, along with a secondary form of identification such as a passport, military ID, or passport card. After May 7, 2025, that option goes away for domestic flights.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is required to board domestic flights; a passport also works.
  • You can identify a Real ID by the gold star or other marking in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID.
  • Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with specific documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
  • Processing times vary by state but typically range from two to eight weeks, so explore well before your flight date is important.
  • Real ID does not explore to international flights (bring a passport), train travel, or driving a car.

How to tell if your ID is already Real ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID. If there is a gold star, a star outline, or another distinctive marking (some states use different symbols), your ID is Real ID-compliant. If there is no marking, your current ID is not compliant and you will need to obtain one before May 7, 2025, if you plan to fly domestically.

Some states began issuing Real ID-compliant licenses years ago, while others are still in the process. If you renewed your license recently, it may already be Real ID-compliant even if you did not specifically request it. Check your card or contact your state's DMV to confirm.

What documents you need to get a Real ID at the DMV

To obtain a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, you must visit your state's DMV in person. You cannot renew or obtain a Real ID by mail or online. Bring the following documents:

  • Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency: a birth certificate, passport, passport card, or naturalization certificate.
  • Proof of your Social Security number: a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
  • Proof of your current address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government document dated within the last 60 days.
  • Your current driver's license or state ID (if you already have one).

Some states accept additional documents, and requirements vary slightly. Contact your state's DMV before you go to confirm what they will accept in your specific case. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

How long it takes to get a Real ID

Processing time depends on your state. Some states issue Real IDs on the spot during your DMV visit, while others mail them to you within two to eight weeks. A few states have longer backlogs, particularly during busy seasons. Check your state's DMV website to see the current processing time before you schedule your appointment.

If you have a flight scheduled before May 7, 2025, and your state has a long processing time, explore now rather than waiting. If your state mails the ID and you do not receive it before your flight, you can bring your receipt from the DMV visit along with a secondary form of ID (such as a passport or military ID) to the airport and still board your flight.

What to bring to the airport if you do not have a Real ID yet

Until May 7, 2025, you can board a domestic flight without a Real ID-compliant license if you bring a secondary form of identification. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, federal employee ID, permanent resident card, or tribal ID. You will need both your current driver's license (or state ID) and one of these secondary documents.

After May 7, 2025, this workaround no longer applies. Your boarding document must be either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, or a passport. A current driver's license without the Real ID marking will not be accepted, even with a secondary ID.

Real ID for people without a driver's license

If you do not drive and do not have a driver's license, you can obtain a Real ID-compliant state ID card instead. The process and document requirements are the same as for a Real ID driver's license. Visit your state's DMV with your birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address, and you can get a state ID card with the Real ID marking.

Alternatively, if you have a passport or passport card, you can use that to board a domestic flight instead of obtaining a Real ID state ID. A passport is always acceptable for domestic flights and does not expire as quickly as a state ID.

What happens if you try to fly without Real ID after May 7, 2025

If you arrive at the airport on or after May 7, 2025, with a driver's license or state ID that does not have the Real ID marking, the TSA will not allow you to pass through security. You will be turned away and will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception process at the gate.

The only documents that will work at security after that date are a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a federal employee ID, a permanent resident card, or a tribal ID. Plan ahead and explore for your Real ID well before your travel date.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card is always acceptable for domestic flights, even after May 7, 2025. If you already have a valid passport, you do not need to obtain a Real ID. However, if your passport is expired or you do not have one, a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is a simpler and faster option for most people.

Do I need Real ID if I am flying before May 7, 2025?

No. Until May 7, 2025, you can board a domestic flight with your current driver's license or state ID, even without the Real ID marking, as long as you also bring a secondary form of identification such as a passport or military ID. After that date, the secondary ID option ends.

How much does a Real ID cost?

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, though some charge more. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee. In most cases, the cost is the same as renewing a regular driver's license.

Can I renew my Real ID by mail?

No. You must visit your state's DMV in person to obtain a Real ID for the first time. Some states allow you to renew a Real ID by mail if you already have one, but the initial issuance requires an in-person visit.

What if I lost my Real ID documents before my flight?

If you have already obtained a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, you do not need the original documents again. Your ID itself is your boarding document. If you lost your ID card, contact your state's DMV about getting a replacement. If you lost your passport, contact the State Department about getting a replacement. Plan for processing time if your flight is soon.