You need a Real ID, passport, or military ID to fly domestically

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checks your identity at the airport before you board a domestic flight. You can use one of three documents: a Real ID driver's license or state ID card, a U.S. passport, or a military ID. A standard driver's license issued before your state upgraded to Real ID will not work — TSA will turn you away at security.

Real ID is a federal standard that states adopted starting in 2009. Your state's DMV can tell you whether your current license meets the standard; most state websites show a small star or marking on Real ID cards. If your license does not have this marking, you will need to renew it or bring a different document to the airport.

You do not need a passport for domestic flights, but a passport is the easiest document to carry if you travel often. Passports never expire as quickly as driver's licenses, and they work for both domestic and international travel. Military dependents can use a military ID card instead, though the rules vary slightly by branch.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID driver's license or state ID card is the most common document for domestic flights, but your current license may not may have access to if it was issued before your state upgraded to Real ID.
  • A U.S. passport works for all domestic flights and does not require you to check whether your state has upgraded its ID system.
  • Military ID cards, including dependent IDs, are accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic travel.
  • TSA will not accept a standard driver's license, expired ID, or a photo ID from a private company, even if it looks official.
  • You should bring your ID to the airport in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage, because TSA checks it before you reach the gate.

How to check if your driver's license is Real ID

Most states mark Real ID cards with a small star in the upper right or upper left corner of the card. Some states use a different symbol — a circle, a flag, or text that says "REAL ID" — so the exact marking depends on where you live. Check your state's DMV website to see what the marking looks like in your state.

If your license does not have the marking, it was issued under the old standard. You can still use it for other purposes like buying alcohol or entering a federal building, but TSA will not accept it for flights. You will need to renew it at your state's DMV office and request a Real ID card, or bring a passport or military ID instead.

The renewal process usually takes two to four weeks, depending on your state. Some states offer expedited renewal for a higher fee. If you need to fly before your new Real ID arrives, bring your passport or military ID to the airport instead.

Getting a Real ID driver's license or state ID

Visit your state's DMV office in person — you cannot renew a Real ID online or by mail. Bring your current driver's license, 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). Some states also require a birth certificate or passport.

The exact documents vary by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go. The fee is usually between $20 and $50 for a standard renewal, though expedited processing costs more. Processing time ranges from same-day service in some states to four weeks in others.

If you have recently moved, you may need to update your address before you can renew your license. Some states allow you to do this online; others require an in-person visit. Plan ahead if you have a flight scheduled, because the DMV can be busy and appointments may not be available for several weeks.

Using a passport instead of a Real ID

A U.S. passport is valid for domestic flights and does not require you to check your state's Real ID status. Passports are issued by the U.S. Department of State and are accepted at every TSA checkpoint in the country. If you travel frequently or plan to leave the country, a passport may be more convenient than renewing your driver's license.

A new passport takes four to six weeks to arrive through the standard process, or one to two weeks through expedited processing (which costs extra). You can explore at a passport acceptance facility, which includes many post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices. Bring your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and a completed passport process form (DS-11 for a new passport or DS-82 for a renewal).

A passport costs between $130 and $165 for an adult, depending on whether you choose standard or expedited processing. Once you have it, it is valid for 10 years, so the cost per flight decreases over time if you travel regularly.

Military ID and dependent ID cards

Active-duty military personnel, retirees, and their dependents can use a military ID card at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. The card must be current and have a photo. Dependent IDs issued by the military are accepted the same way as active-duty IDs.

If your military ID is expired, TSA may still accept it if it is only slightly out of date, but the rules vary by airport. Call the TSA ahead of time if your ID is more than a few months expired. Military retirees and dependents can renew their IDs at a military installation or through DEERS (Defense Enrollment may be able to access Reporting System).

What TSA will not accept

TSA will not accept a standard driver's license issued before your state upgraded to Real ID, even if it is current and has your photo. They will also reject an expired ID of any kind, including an expired passport or military card. A school ID, work badge, or state ID card that is not a Real ID will not work either.

If you arrive at the airport without an acceptable ID, TSA can conduct additional screening, but this takes extra time and may cause you to miss your flight. You cannot board without passing identity verification. If you realize you forgot your ID at home, some airports have TSA PreCheck kiosks where you can verify your identity using your name and date of birth, but this is not available at all airports and is not may provide to work.

Traveling with minors

Children under 18 do not need a government-issued photo ID for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult. The adult traveling with them must have an acceptable ID. If a child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, TSA may ask for proof of the relationship or permission from the parent.

If your child is traveling internationally, they will need a passport regardless of age. For domestic flights, a birth certificate or school ID is not sufficient on its own, but the adult accompanying them can use their Real ID, passport, or military card to board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired ID if I have a new one at home?

No. TSA will only accept a current, valid ID. If your new Real ID has not arrived yet, bring your passport or military ID instead. If you have none of these, you cannot board the flight.

What if my state has not upgraded to Real ID yet?

All 50 states have now issued Real ID cards. If your current license does not have the Real ID marking, it was issued under the old standard and will not work for flights. Visit your state's DMV to renew it as a Real ID card.

Do I need my ID in a specific format or condition?

Your ID must be readable and not damaged so badly that TSA cannot verify it. A bent corner or small scratch is fine. If the photo is faded or the information is hard to read, TSA may ask you additional questions or deny boarding.

Can I use a digital ID on my phone instead of a physical card?

TSA does not currently accept digital IDs on phones for domestic flights. You must bring a physical Real ID card, passport, or military ID. Some states are developing digital ID programs, but they are not yet accepted at airports.

What if I lost my ID and my flight is tomorrow?

Contact your state's DMV when ready to see if they offer same-day replacement. If not, bring your passport if you have one. If you have neither, you will need to reschedule your flight or go through additional TSA screening, which may cause delays.