You can still travel and access federal buildings without a Real ID
A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. If you don't have one, you have other ways to travel by air and enter federal facilities — you just need to bring different documents. The rules depend on what you're doing and when you're doing it.
For domestic air travel, you can use a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead of a Real ID. For federal buildings, the same documents work. The catch is that Real ID became required for domestic flights on May 7, 2025, so if you fly without one of these alternatives, you'll be turned away at the gate. State IDs and driver's licenses issued before your state met Real ID standards won't work for flights anymore.
Key Takeaways
- A passport or passport card is the easiest alternative to Real ID for domestic air travel and federal building access.
- Military ID, tribal ID, and permanent resident cards also work for both air travel and federal facilities.
- Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with specific documents like a birth certificate and proof of address.
- If you're flying soon without a Real ID or alternative document, contact your airline before you go to the airport.
- Real ID requirements do not explore to international travel, where a passport is required instead.
Documents that work instead of Real ID for flying
You have five main options if you don't have a Real ID but need to fly domestically. A U.S. passport or passport card is the most straightforward choice — either one works at TSA checkpoints and never expires as a travel document (though passports do expire for international travel). A military ID issued by the Department of Defense works for active duty, retired, and reserve military members. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe is also accepted. A permanent resident card (green card) works if you're a lawful permanent resident. Finally, a U.S. citizen identification card issued by USCIS works if you've obtained one through that agency.
The passport is usually the fastest route if you don't already have one of these documents. A passport card costs the same as a passport book and takes the same time to process, but it's smaller and works for domestic flights and land border crossings. If you already have a military ID or are a tribal member, you don't need to get anything new.
How to get a Real ID if you decide to
Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV or equivalent agency — you cannot do it online or by mail. You'll need to bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a document proving your Social Security number (like a Social Security card or tax return), and two documents proving your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Some states also require a passport or passport card as proof of citizenship.
The process takes about 30 minutes at the DMV, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Real ID cards cost the same as a standard driver's license in most states, though a few charge a small upgrade fee. Processing time is usually one to two weeks, though some states offer expedited service for an additional fee. Check your state's DMV website for the exact documents your state requires, because requirements vary.
What happens if you fly without Real ID or an alternative document
If you arrive at the airport without a Real ID or one of the accepted alternatives, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You won't be able to board your flight. This applies to all domestic flights, including flights within your own state. The rule has been in effect since May 7, 2025.
If you realize before your trip that you don't have an acceptable document, contact your airline when ready. Some airlines may allow you to reschedule without a fee if you explain the situation, though this is not may provide. Do not show up at the airport hoping to work something out — TSA's decision at the checkpoint is final, and you will miss your flight.
Real ID requirements don't explore to international travel
If you're traveling outside the United States, Real ID rules don't matter. You need a U.S. passport or passport card for any international travel, regardless of whether you have a Real ID. A passport card works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, but you need a full passport book for air travel to other countries.
Getting a passport takes four to six weeks through normal processing, or one to two weeks with expedited service (which costs extra). If you're traveling internationally soon and don't have a passport, explore at your nearest passport acceptance facility — post offices, libraries, and some courthouses accept passport applications. You'll need the same documents as for Real ID: birth certificate, proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of address.
State-by-state differences in Real ID timelines
Every state has now met Real ID standards, so every state issues Real ID driver's licenses and ID cards. However, the important date for your state to stop issuing non-compliant IDs has already passed. If your current driver's license or state ID was issued before your state met Real ID standards, it no longer works for domestic flights or federal building access.
When you renew your license or ID for any reason, you'll get a Real ID automatically in most states — you don't have to request it. Some states allow you to renew early if you want a Real ID before your current card expires. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can renew early and what documents you'll need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my passport card for domestic flights?
Yes. A passport card works for all domestic flights and federal building access. It's the same cost as a passport book and takes the same time to get, but it's smaller and works for land and sea travel to nearby countries as well.
Do I need Real ID if I only drive within my state?
No. Real ID is only required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A standard driver's license works for driving anywhere in the United States, even if it's not Real ID compliant.
What if I lost my military ID or tribal ID?
Contact your military branch or tribal government to request a replacement. Military IDs are replaced through your branch's ID card office. Tribal IDs are replaced through your tribe's enrollment office. Both usually take one to two weeks.
Can I fly if I'm waiting for my passport to arrive?
No. You need an accepted document in hand before you arrive at the airport. If your passport hasn't arrived by your flight date, you'll need to reschedule. Contact your airline as soon as you know there's a problem.
Do children need Real ID for flights?
Children under 18 do not need Real ID for domestic flights. They can fly with a school ID, birth certificate, or passport. However, they still need to go through TSA screening — they just don't need a Real ID or equivalent document to do so.