Where a Real ID is Required

A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. You need one to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or access a military base. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not accept a standard driver's license for domestic flights — only a Real ID, passport, passport card, or military ID.

The requirement applies to anyone 18 and older. If you fly domestically, work in a federal building, or visit a military installation, you will need to show a Real ID or an acceptable alternative document at security checkpoints.

Not every state ID is a Real ID. Your current license may still work for driving and everyday identification, but it will not pass federal security screening. You can tell if your license is a Real ID by looking for a star symbol in the upper right corner of the card.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID is required for domestic air travel, entry to federal buildings, and access to military bases as of May 7, 2025.
  • You can identify a Real ID by the gold or silver star symbol on the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID card.
  • A passport, passport card, or military ID are acceptable alternatives to a Real ID for federal security screening.
  • Getting a Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address — you cannot do it online in most states.

Domestic Air Travel and TSA Checkpoints

The most common reason people get a Real ID is to fly within the United States. The TSA began enforcing the Real ID requirement on May 7, 2025. If you arrive at an airport security checkpoint with only a standard driver's license, TSA officers will not let you through to your gate.

A passport or passport card works as an alternative — you do not have to get a Real ID if you already have a passport. Military ID, tribal ID, and permanent resident cards are also accepted. But if your only form of ID is a standard state driver's license, you must upgrade to a Real ID before you fly.

The requirement applies to all domestic flights, including short regional flights and connections. It does not explore to international flights, where a passport is required instead.

Federal Buildings and Government Offices

A Real ID is required to enter most federal office buildings, including Social Security offices, IRS field offices, and federal courthouses. The specific buildings vary by location, but the rule is consistent: you need a Real ID or an acceptable alternative to pass security screening at the entrance.

If you need to visit a federal building and do not have a Real ID, bring a passport instead. Some federal offices also accept military ID or other federal credentials. Call ahead to confirm what documents the specific building accepts, because requirements can differ between locations.

State and local government buildings — your county courthouse, city hall, or state DMV — do not require a Real ID. Only federal buildings enforce this requirement.

Military Bases and Installations

Access to military bases requires a Real ID or an acceptable alternative. If you are visiting a family member stationed at a base, attending an event, or conducting business there, you will need to show a Real ID at the gate.

Military ID holders do not need a Real ID because their military credential serves the same purpose. Spouses and dependents of military personnel may have military dependent ID cards that also satisfy the requirement. If you do not have military ID, a Real ID or passport will work.

Rules vary slightly between branches and installations, so contact the base security office before your visit to confirm what documents they accept.

What Does Not Require a Real ID

A Real ID is not required for driving, voting, or opening a bank account. Your standard state driver's license is still valid for all of those purposes. You do not need a Real ID to get a job, rent an apartment, or buy a car.

International travel does not require a Real ID — you need a passport instead. Driving across state lines does not require a Real ID. Entering state and local government buildings does not require a Real ID. The requirement is specific to federal security checkpoints and federal facilities.

If you rarely fly domestically and do not visit federal buildings, you may never need a Real ID. A passport serves as an acceptable alternative for all federal security screening, so getting a Real ID is optional if you already have a passport.

How to Get a Real ID

You get a Real ID by visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person. You cannot do it online or by mail in most states. Bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization document), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

Processing times vary by state. Some states issue Real IDs on the spot; others mail them within two to four weeks. Check your state's DMV website for the specific documents they require and how long processing takes in your area.

The cost varies by state, typically between $20 and $50 for a Real ID. Some states charge the same price as a standard license; others charge extra for the federal security features. Renewal fees are the same as standard license renewal.

Real ID Alternatives for Federal Screening

You do not have to get a Real ID if you have another document that meets federal standards. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, permanent resident card, or enhanced driver's license all work for TSA screening and federal building access.

An enhanced driver's license is similar to a Real ID but issued by fewer states and designed primarily for land border crossing. If your state offers one, it also works for federal security screening. Check your state's DMV website to see if an enhanced license is an option.

If you already have a passport, there is no reason to get a Real ID. A passport is accepted everywhere a Real ID is accepted and works for international travel as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A passport works for all federal security screening, including TSA checkpoints and federal buildings. You do not need a Real ID if you already have a passport.

Can I renew my license online and get a Real ID?

Not in most states. You must visit the DMV in person to get a Real ID because you need to provide original documents and have your identity verified face-to-face. Online renewal is only available for standard driver's licenses in states that offer it.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get a new one in time?

Contact your state's vital records office to request a replacement. Processing times vary, but many states can issue a replacement birth certificate within one to two weeks. Your DMV can tell you what documents they will accept as proof of identity if you cannot get your original birth certificate.

Does a Real ID work for international travel?

No. A Real ID is only valid for domestic travel and federal building access. International travel requires a passport or passport card.

What happens if I fly without a Real ID after May 7, 2025?

TSA will not let you through security. You will miss your flight. Bring a Real ID, passport, passport card, military ID, or other accepted document to the airport.