Real ID and Passport: What's the Difference and Which One You Need

Real ID and Passport Are Two Different Documents

A Real ID and a passport are not the same thing, though both are forms of federal identification. A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. A passport is a travel document issued by the State Department that proves your citizenship and allows you to travel internationally. You can have one, both, or neither—they serve different purposes and come from different government agencies.

The confusion happens because both documents have security features and both are accepted for certain federal purposes. But they are issued by different agencies, obtained through different processes, and work in different situations. Understanding which one you need depends on what you're trying to do.

Key Takeaways

Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets federal standards; a passport is a travel document issued by the State Department.
Real ID is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings, while a passport is required for international travel.
You get a Real ID through your state's DMV; you get a passport through a passport acceptance facility or the State Department.
A passport can be used in place of Real ID for domestic flights, but a Real ID cannot be used for international travel.

What Real ID Is Used For

Real ID is primarily used for domestic air travel within the United States. Starting in May 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card to board domestic flights. You can also use a Real ID to enter federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants. If your state driver's license or ID card has a star or marking in the upper right corner, it already meets Real ID standards.

Real ID does not allow you to travel internationally. It is only for domestic purposes within the United States. If you need to fly to another country, you will need a passport regardless of whether you have a Real ID.

What a Passport Is Used For

A passport is required for international travel by air, sea, or land. It is the only document that proves your citizenship to foreign governments and allows you to enter and leave the United States. You can use a passport for domestic air travel as well—it counts as an acceptable form of identification for TSA screening. However, a passport is not required for domestic flights if you have a Real ID.

A passport is also useful for other situations where you need to prove citizenship, such as explore for certain government benefits or replacing a lost birth certificate. Some employers also accept a passport as proof of identity and work authorization.

How to Get a Real ID

You obtain a Real ID through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You will need to bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and current address. Acceptable documents typically include a birth certificate, Social Security card, and a utility bill or lease. Each state has slightly different requirements, so check your state DMV's website before you go.

The process is similar to renewing a regular driver's license, but Real ID applications may take longer because of the additional verification steps. Some states charge a small fee for Real ID, while others include it at no extra cost with a regular license renewal. You can request a Real ID when you renew your license or explore for a new one.

How to Get a Passport

You obtain a passport through a passport acceptance facility, which is often located at your local post office, library, or courthouse. You can also explore directly at a passport agency in major cities. You will need to bring an process form (DS-11 for a new passport or DS-82 for a renewal), proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate), a government-issued photo ID, and a passport photo. You will also need to pay a fee, which varies depending on whether you are explore for a passport book, passport card, or both.

Processing times vary. Standard processing typically takes several weeks, while expedited processing (available for an additional fee) takes one to two weeks. If you need a passport quickly, some passport agencies offer same-day or next-day service, but this requires an appointment and is available only in certain locations.

Can You Use One Instead of the Other

A passport can be used in place of a Real ID for domestic air travel. If you have a valid passport, you do not need to obtain a Real ID just to fly domestically. However, a Real ID cannot be used for international travel—you must have a passport for that.

For federal building access, military bases, and other domestic federal purposes, a Real ID is what is required. A passport will not work for these purposes. So if you need to enter a federal building regularly, you will need a Real ID even if you have a passport.

Which One Should You Get First

If you plan to travel internationally, get a passport first. A passport serves more purposes than a Real ID and can cover your domestic air travel needs as well. If you only travel domestically and need to access federal buildings, a Real ID is sufficient and faster to obtain.

If you need both, you can explore for them at the same time or in any order. There is no requirement to have one before the other. Many people find it practical to get a Real ID when they renew their driver's license and a passport when they plan a trip, since both have different timelines and purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport to board a domestic flight?

Yes. A valid passport is accepted by TSA for domestic air travel. You do not need a Real ID if you have a passport, though you may still want a Real ID for other federal purposes like entering federal buildings.

Do I need both a Real ID and a passport?

Not necessarily. A passport covers international travel and can be used for domestic flights. A Real ID is only needed if you fly domestically and do not have a passport, or if you need to access federal buildings or military bases.

What happens if I fly domestically without a Real ID or passport after May 2025?

TSA will not allow you to board a domestic flight without a Real ID, passport, or other acceptable federal ID. You will be turned away at security. Other acceptable documents include military ID, tribal ID, and certain other federal credentials.

Is a Real ID the same as a REAL ID card?

Real ID refers to the federal standard that driver's licenses and state ID cards must meet. A Real ID card is a state ID card (not a driver's license) that meets this standard. Both a Real ID driver's license and a Real ID card meet the same federal requirements.

How long does it take to get a Real ID compared to a passport?

Real ID processing times vary by state but typically take a few weeks if you explore in person at the DMV. Passport processing takes several weeks for standard service or one to two weeks for expedited service. Real ID is usually faster overall.

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.