Who needs a Real ID to fly domestically

You need a Real ID to board a domestic flight only if you are 18 years old or older. Children under 18 can fly within the United States with a regular state ID, a school ID, a passport, or even a birth certificate — they do not need a Real ID.

Real ID is a federal security standard that states must meet for driver's licenses and ID cards. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began enforcing the requirement for domestic flights on May 7, 2025. If you are 18 or older and do not have a Real ID, you will need either a Real ID card, a passport, a military ID, or a passport card to pass through security.

Key Takeaways

  • Only passengers 18 and older need a Real ID for domestic flights; children under 18 can use a birth certificate, school ID, or regular state ID.
  • A Real ID is marked with a gold star or star outline in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID card.
  • If you do not have a Real ID, you can still fly with a passport, military ID, or passport card instead.
  • Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address.

How to tell if your ID is a Real ID

Your state ID or driver's license is a Real ID if it has a gold star or star outline in the upper right corner. This marking is the only visual indicator that your card meets federal standards. If your card does not have this star, it is not a Real ID.

You can also check your state's DMV website to see what a Real ID looks like in your state — the design varies slightly, but the star is always present. If you are unsure, contact your state's DMV directly with your ID number, and they can confirm whether your card is compliant.

What documents you need to get a Real ID

Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV. You will need to bring three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address.

Proof of identity can be a current passport, passport card, military ID, or birth certificate. Proof of citizenship includes a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or tribal ID. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — a piece of mail with your name and address works.

Some states accept additional documents, so check your state DMV's website before you go. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are usually not accepted. If your name has changed due to marriage or legal action, bring the court order or marriage certificate as well.

How long it takes to get a Real ID

The time to receive your Real ID card after your DMV visit varies by state. Most states mail the card within two to four weeks, though some take up to six weeks. A few states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can reduce the wait to one to two weeks.

Do not wait until the week before your flight to explore. If you are flying soon and do not have a Real ID, bring a passport, military ID, or passport card instead — these are accepted at security checkpoints and require no wait time if you already have them.

Alternatives to Real ID for flying

If you do not have a Real ID and cannot get one before your flight, you have other options. The TSA accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) at security checkpoints. These documents work for domestic flights and do not require the Real ID star.

An Enhanced Driver's License is a state ID that meets a higher security standard than Real ID and is marked differently — usually with a flag or enhanced marking. Not all states issue them, so check your state's DMV website. If you already have a passport or military ID, either one will get you through security without needing a Real ID.

Real ID and international travel

Real ID is only required for domestic flights — flights within the United States. If you are flying to another country, you must have a passport regardless of whether you have a Real ID. A Real ID card alone is not sufficient for international travel.

If you are flying domestically but your flight connects through an international airport, you still only need a Real ID for the domestic portion. However, if you are crossing into Canada or Mexico by land, some border crossings accept an Enhanced Driver's License or passport card instead of a passport.

What happens if you arrive at security without Real ID

If you are 18 or older and arrive at the security checkpoint without a Real ID or an accepted alternative, the TSA will not let you through. You will not be able to board your flight. The TSA may ask you additional questions to verify your identity, but without an accepted form of ID, you cannot proceed.

If this happens, you have a few options: you can reschedule your flight for a later date when you have a Real ID or passport, you can leave the airport and return with the correct ID if your flight is not for several hours, or you can contact the airline about rebooking. Some airlines allow one free rebooking if you miss your flight due to ID issues, but policies vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child fly with a school ID?

Yes, children under 18 can fly with a school ID. They can also use a birth certificate, passport, or regular state ID. Only passengers 18 and older need a Real ID or an accepted alternative.

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A passport is accepted at security checkpoints for domestic flights and is considered a valid alternative to Real ID. You do not need both.

Can I renew my regular ID as a Real ID at the same time?

Yes. When you renew your driver's license or state ID at the DMV, you can request that it be issued as a Real ID. Bring the same documents you would for a new Real ID process. Some states charge a small additional fee for Real ID, while others do not.

What if my state hasn't issued Real IDs yet?

All 50 states now issue Real IDs. If you believe your state has not, check your state's DMV website or call them directly. You can also use a passport or military ID instead while you wait for your state's Real ID program to roll out.

Do I need Real ID for flights to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico?

Yes. Flights to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam are considered domestic flights and require Real ID for passengers 18 and older.