You need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or another approved form of identification to fly domestically

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires every passenger to show a valid photo ID at airport security. For domestic flights, a standard driver's license works—but only if it meets Real ID standards, which most states' licenses now do. If your license does not meet Real ID requirements, you can still fly with an alternative form of ID, such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card.

Real ID is a federal security standard that went into effect in 2020. It means your driver's license has a gold star or other marking in the upper right corner and was issued by a state that verified your identity documents when you applied. If you are unsure whether your license meets the standard, check your state's DMV website or look for that marking on your card.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license is the simplest form of ID for domestic flights, and most states now issue them automatically.
  • If your driver's license does not have the Real ID marking, you can still fly with a passport, military ID, passport card, or enhanced driver's license.
  • The Real ID star appears in the upper right corner of your license and indicates your state verified your identity documents when you applied.
  • You do not need Real ID for flights to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, though a passport is still accepted.

How to check if your driver's license meets Real ID standards

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license. If there is a gold or black star, your license is Real ID-compliant. If there is no star, your license does not meet the standard, and you will need to bring a different form of ID to the airport.

You can also visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID" to confirm. Most states list which licenses they have issued with the Real ID marking and which ones have not. Some states issued non-compliant licenses for years before switching over, so the year you received your license matters.

If your license does not have the Real ID marking and you want to upgrade it, contact your state's DMV. You will need to provide documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and state residency—typically a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address. The process usually takes a few weeks, and there is a fee that varies by state.

Other forms of ID that work at airport security

If your driver's license is not Real ID-compliant, the TSA accepts several other forms of photo ID for domestic flights. A U.S. passport or passport card works at any airport. A military ID, including a dependent ID card, is also accepted. Some states issue an enhanced driver's license that meets Real ID standards and also works for land border crossings—check your state DMV to see if this option is available.

A state ID card (not a driver's license) can be Real ID-compliant if your state issues it that way. Tribal IDs issued by federally recognized tribes are also accepted. If you have a permanent resident card (green card), that works too. The key is that the ID must be current and have a photo on it.

If you are flying soon and your driver's license is not compliant, a passport is the fastest backup option if you already have one. If you do not have a passport and need one quickly, standard processing takes several weeks, and expedited processing takes one to two weeks—both have fees. A passport card is cheaper and faster to obtain than a full passport book, though it can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, not for flights.

What happens if you arrive at security without acceptable ID

If you show up at the airport without a Real ID-compliant license or an alternative form of ID, the TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. This is why it is worth checking your license before you leave home.

If you realize at the airport that your ID does not work, some airports have a DMV office or kiosk on-site where you can get an emergency ID, though this is rare and not may provide. Your best option is to contact your state's DMV ahead of time if you think there might be a problem. Some states can issue a temporary ID or letter confirming your identity, though the TSA's acceptance of these varies.

Real ID requirements for international flights

For flights leaving the United States to another country, you must have a passport. A driver's license—even a Real ID-compliant one—is not enough. You will also need to check the passport requirements of the country you are visiting, as some countries require your passport to be valid for a certain amount of time after your return date.

If you are flying to a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, or American Samoa, you do not need a passport. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or other approved ID works for these destinations. However, a passport is still accepted and can be useful if you want to leave the territory and visit a nearby country.

Renewing your driver's license before a trip

If your driver's license is expired, you cannot use it at airport security, even if it is Real ID-compliant. You will need to renew it before your flight. Most states allow you to renew online or by mail if your license is only slightly expired, though the rules vary. Check your state's DMV website for the renewal process and how long it takes.

If you are renewing in person at the DMV, bring the documents your state requires to verify your identity and residency. When you renew, ask the DMV employee to make sure your new license is issued with the Real ID marking. Some states do this automatically; others require you to request it or pay an extra fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired driver's license?

No. The TSA requires your ID to be current. An expired license will not work at security, even if it was Real ID-compliant when it was valid. You will need to renew your license before your flight or bring a different form of valid ID, such as a passport.

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A passport works for any flight, domestic or international, and you do not need Real ID if you have one. However, a passport takes weeks to obtain, so a Real ID-compliant driver's license is faster and more convenient for domestic travel if you already have it.

What if my state has not issued Real ID licenses yet?

All U.S. states and territories now issue Real ID-compliant licenses. If your state is still issuing non-compliant licenses, it is because you have not renewed your license since your state switched over. Contact your state's DMV to renew and request the Real ID version.

Can I use a photo ID from another country to fly domestically in the U.S.?

No. The TSA requires a U.S.-issued photo ID for domestic flights. A foreign driver's license or passport will not work. If you are a visitor to the U.S., bring your passport instead.

Do I need Real ID for flights within U.S. territories?

No. Flights to Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa are considered domestic and do not require a passport, but a Real ID-compliant driver's license or other approved U.S. ID still works. A passport is also accepted.