What ID You Need to Fly in the United States

You need a Real ID or passport to fly domestically in the US

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all passengers flying within the United States to show either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, a military ID, or a handful of other federal documents. If your state driver's license does not have a gold star or gold circle in the upper right corner, it will not work at the airport checkpoint after that date.

You do not need a passport for domestic flights—a Real ID driver's license is sufficient and faster to renew than a passport book. However, if you already have a passport, it works just as well. The key point is that a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license will be rejected, even if it is current and valid for driving.

International flights have always required a passport or passport card. That rule has not changed and applies regardless of your Real ID status.

Key Takeaways

Real ID driver's licenses have a gold star or circle in the upper right corner and are the easiest form of ID to obtain for domestic flights.
Passports, military IDs, and tribal IDs also work for domestic flights and do not expire as quickly as driver's licenses.
Standard driver's licenses without the Real ID marker will be rejected at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.
You can check your state's DMV website to see how long a Real ID takes to arrive and what documents you need to bring in person.
International flights require a passport book or passport card, not a Real ID driver's license alone.

How to get a Real ID driver's license

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and look for "Real ID" or "REAL ID Compliant License." Each state has its own process, but all require you to appear in person with specific documents. You cannot renew a Real ID online, even if your current license is not expired.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), proof of your date of birth (birth certificate or passport), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Some states also ask for a second form of ID. Check your state's DMV website for the exact list before you go, because missing one document means a wasted trip.

Processing times vary by state. Some states issue Real IDs in two to three weeks; others take six to eight weeks. Plan ahead if you have a trip coming up. Expedited processing is available in some states for an extra fee, but it is not may provide to meet a specific important date.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

TSA will not let you through the checkpoint without one of the documents listed above. You will not be able to board your flight. If you are at the airport and realize you forgot your ID, you can ask TSA for a secondary verification process, but this is not reliable and may not work—do not count on it.

If you have a flight coming up and do not have a Real ID or other acceptable document, your fastest option is usually a passport card rather than a full passport book. A passport card is smaller, costs less, and arrives in the same timeframe. However, it still takes weeks, so if your flight is within two weeks, you may need to reschedule or drive instead.

Some states offer expedited Real ID processing at certain DMV locations, but you must explore in person and it still takes several business days minimum. Call your local DMV to ask whether expedited service is available and whether it can meet your timeline.

Real ID requirements for minors and children

Children under 18 do not need their own ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with an adult. The adult traveling with them must have acceptable ID (Real ID, passport, military ID, or another approved document). The child's name must match the name on the airline ticket.

If a child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, some airlines require a notarized letter of consent from the parent. This is an airline policy, not a TSA rule, so check with your airline before your flight.

Minors do need a passport for international flights, just as adults do. A passport for a minor takes the same amount of time to process as an adult passport and requires a parent or guardian to explore in person.

Real ID and state-specific timelines

The May 7, 2025 important date applies nationwide, but your state may have already issued Real IDs or may still be in the early stages. Check your state DMV website to see whether Real IDs are available now and how long the current wait is. Some states have wait times of two weeks; others have wait times of two months.

If your state has a long wait, consider whether a passport card might be faster for your situation. You can explore for a passport card at a post office or passport acceptance facility, and processing times are often shorter than DMV Real ID processing in high-demand states.

Your state DMV website will also tell you whether you can renew your current license online while you wait for your Real ID appointment. Some states allow this; others do not. If your current license is about to expire and your Real ID appointment is months away, ask the DMV whether you can extend your standard license temporarily.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. A passport card is a valid form of ID for domestic flights and works just like a Real ID at the checkpoint. It costs less than a full passport book and arrives in the same timeframe. However, it is smaller and easier to lose, and it does not work for land border crossings the way an Enhanced Driver's License does.

What if I have a valid driver's license but it does not have the gold star?

That license will not work at TSA checkpoints after May 7, 2025, even if it is not expired. You must get a Real ID driver's license, passport, or another approved document. Standard licenses are being phased out for air travel, not extended.

Do I need a Real ID if I only fly once every few years?

Yes, if you fly domestically after May 7, 2025. The important date applies to all domestic flights, regardless of how often you fly. However, if you have a passport, you do not need a Real ID—a passport works for both domestic and international flights.

Can I get a Real ID by mail?

No. Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state DMV. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your current license is valid. Plan to visit the DMV in person and bring all required documents.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You can bring a W-2, 1099, or other document showing your Social Security number instead of the card itself. You do not need the physical card. Check your state DMV website for the full list of acceptable documents.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.