You need a Real ID to fly at any age, starting when ready

The federal government requires a Real ID for all domestic air travel, with no age exceptions. This means even infants and children need to present a Real ID-compliant document at airport security. A Real ID is a driver's license, state ID card, or passport that meets federal security standards — it has a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner.

The requirement applies to everyone boarding a plane, regardless of whether they are traveling alone or with a parent. A child traveling with an adult still needs their own Real ID document to pass through security. If your child does not have one, you will need to obtain it before your flight.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID is required for all passengers of any age on domestic flights, with no exceptions for infants or young children.
  • A Real ID document has a gold or metallic star and can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or passport card.
  • Children under 16 can get a state ID card or passport without a driver's license, and these count as Real ID documents.
  • You must bring your child's Real ID document to the airport; a birth certificate or school ID alone will not work for security screening.
  • Processing times for new ID documents vary by state but typically range from two to eight weeks.

What documents count as Real ID for children

Your child does not need a driver's license to fly. Instead, you can obtain a state ID card, which is a non-driver identification document issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency. A state ID card looks similar to a driver's license but is marked for identification only. It costs less than a driver's license in most states and serves the same purpose for air travel.

A U.S. passport or passport card also counts as Real ID and works for domestic flights. Many families choose a passport because it is useful for international travel as well. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a full passport book but serves the same purpose for flying. All three options — state ID card, driver's license, or passport — have the required security features and will get your child through airport security.

How to get a Real ID document for your child

To obtain a state ID card for a child, visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles office in person. You will need to bring the child with you, along with documents proving their identity and age (usually a birth certificate), proof of your address, and proof of your relationship to the child (your ID). Some states allow you to start the process online, but you must complete it in person.

Processing times vary by state. Most states issue state ID cards within two to four weeks, though some take longer during busy periods. If you need the document quickly, ask the DMV office whether expedited processing is available — this usually costs extra but can reduce the wait to one week or less. Plan ahead, as waiting until the week before your flight may result in the document not arriving in time.

For a passport, visit a passport acceptance facility, which is often a post office, courthouse, or library. You will need the child's birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and a photo ID from a parent or guardian. Passport processing normally takes four to six weeks, or two to three weeks with expedited service. A passport card is faster and cheaper than a full passport book if you only need it for domestic flights.

What happens if your child does not have Real ID

If your child arrives at the airport without a Real ID document, they will not be allowed through security screening. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will turn you away, and you will not be able to board your flight. There is no exception for children traveling with parents, and no alternative document will substitute for a Real ID.

If you realize your child lacks Real ID close to your travel date, your only options are to postpone the flight or obtain an emergency document. Some states offer expedited ID processing for travel purposes, but this must be arranged in advance and costs extra. Contact your state's DMV when ready to ask about rush options if you are within two weeks of your flight.

Real ID versus other documents at the airport

A birth certificate, school ID, or social security card will not work for TSA security screening, even for children. The TSA specifically requires a Real ID document or an acceptable alternative like a passport. Many parents mistakenly bring a birth certificate thinking it will work for a young child — it will not.

If your child has a passport or passport card, that document alone is sufficient and you do not need a state ID card as well. However, if you do not have a passport, the state ID card is the fastest and cheapest option for most families. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents they accept as proof of identity and age, as requirements vary slightly by state.

Planning ahead for family travel

If you have a family trip planned, obtain Real ID documents for all children at least two months before your departure date. This gives you a buffer in case processing takes longer than expected or if you need to request a replacement. Many families explore for state ID cards or passports during school breaks or at the start of summer to avoid last-minute stress.

Keep your child's Real ID document in a safe place and bring it to the airport in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage. The TSA will ask to see it at the security checkpoint before you reach the gate. If you are flying with multiple children, make sure each child's document is easily accessible so you can present them quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do babies and infants need Real ID to fly?

Yes, even infants need a Real ID document to pass through airport security. You will need to obtain a state ID card or passport for your baby before flying. Many parents are surprised by this requirement, so plan ahead and explore for the document well before your trip.

Can I use my child's school ID or birth certificate instead of Real ID?

No. The TSA only accepts Real ID documents like a state ID card, driver's license, passport, or passport card. A school ID, birth certificate, or social security card will not work, even for young children. You must obtain one of the approved documents before flying.

What if my child's Real ID document arrives after my flight date?

You will not be able to fly. The TSA will not allow your child through security without a Real ID document in hand. If this happens, you must postpone your flight or contact your state's DMV when ready to ask about emergency or expedited options, though these are not always available.

Is a passport card cheaper and faster than a state ID card?

A passport card typically costs more than a state ID card but is faster to obtain in some cases. A passport card takes four to six weeks standard or two to three weeks expedited. A state ID card usually takes two to four weeks. Compare your state's processing times and fees to decide which works best for your timeline.

Do I need Real ID if I am driving to the airport instead of flying?

Real ID is only required for air travel. If you are driving to your destination, you do not need a Real ID document. However, starting in 2025, you will need Real ID to enter federal buildings or military bases, so it is useful to have regardless of your travel plans.