Real ID or a Passport Works for Domestic Flights

For a domestic flight within the United States, you need one of two things: a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or a valid passport. Real ID is a federal security standard that most states now use for their regular driver's licenses. If your license has a gold or silver star in the upper right corner, it is Real ID-compliant and will work at airport security. If it does not have that star, you can still fly, but you will need to bring an additional document—a passport, passport card, or military ID.

The Real ID requirement has been in effect since May 2023. Before that date, the important date kept moving, but it is now the law. If you have not renewed your license recently, check whether yours has the star. Many states automatically issue Real ID licenses when you renew, but some do not, so you may need to request it specifically when you go to the DMV.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star) is the simplest option for domestic flights and works at any U.S. airport.
  • A valid U.S. passport or passport card works for any flight, domestic or international, and never expires as quickly as a driver's license.
  • If your driver's license does not have a Real ID star, you can still fly domestically by bringing a passport, military ID, or other federal ID as a second document.
  • Getting a Real ID license requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
  • TSA PreCheck and Global Entry cards are not required to fly but can speed up security screening if you have them.

What Documents Count as Real ID

Real ID is a set of security standards, not a separate card. Your state's driver's license or ID card meets Real ID if it has the star. You can also use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a Trusted Traveler card like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Any of these will get you through airport security for a domestic flight.

The star appears in the upper right corner of the card itself. If you are unsure whether your license has it, look at the physical card or check your state's DMV website—most have a page showing what Real ID looks like. Some states rolled out Real ID licenses automatically; others required people to request it. If you renewed your license in the last few years, you likely have it, but do not assume.

How to Get a Real ID License at Your State DMV

You must visit your state's DMV in person. You cannot renew a Real ID license online, even if your state allows online renewal for regular licenses. Bring three things: proof of identity (your current driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your Social Security number or a document showing it.

Processing time varies by state. Some issue the Real ID card on the spot; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. The fee is usually the same as a regular license renewal, though a few states charge slightly more. Check your state's DMV website before you go—each state has its own rules about which documents count as proof of residency and how long the process takes.

If you are flying soon and do not have a Real ID license yet, bring a passport or military ID to the airport instead. You do not need to get a Real ID license before your trip.

Passports and Passport Cards for Any Flight

A U.S. passport works for any flight—domestic or international—and is valid for 10 years (or 5 years if you are under 16). A passport card is smaller and cheaper but works only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean; it does not work for flights. If you are flying anywhere, get a full passport, not a card.

Getting a passport takes time. First-time applicants must explore in person at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office, courthouse, or library). Processing normally takes four to six weeks, though expedited service (two to three weeks) costs extra. If you are flying within the next month and do not have a passport, a Real ID license is faster.

What Happens If You Show Up Without Proper ID

If you arrive at the airport without a Real ID license or passport, TSA can still let you through security—but it takes longer. You will be asked to answer identity verification questions and may be subject to additional screening. TSA may ask for your name, address, date of birth, and other personal details to confirm who you are. This process can add 15 to 30 minutes to your security wait.

You must still have some form of ID. A credit card, library card, or student ID alone will not work. If you have nothing, TSA will not let you through, and you will not be able to fly. Always bring something—even an expired passport is better than nothing.

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry: Speed, Not Requirement

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are optional programs that speed up security screening. TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for five years and lets you go through a faster security line at U.S. airports. Global Entry costs $100 for five years and includes TSA PreCheck plus faster customs screening when you return from international travel. Neither is required to fly.

Both programs require an in-person appointment at an enrollment center to verify your identity and take your fingerprints. You can explore online, but you must show up in person to finish. If you fly frequently, they save time; if you fly once a year, they are probably not worth the cost. Your Real ID license or passport is all you need to fly.

Flying Internationally: Passport Required

For any flight leaving the United States, you need a valid U.S. passport. A Real ID license will not work. Some countries also require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return date, so check the rules for your destination before you book. You may also need a visa depending on where you are going, but that is separate from your ID requirement.

If you are a U.S. citizen living abroad, you need a valid passport to return to the United States. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you need a valid passport from your country plus any visas or travel documents required by the United States and your destination country. Check the State Department website or your country's embassy for current rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired driver's license?

No. Your ID must be valid. An expired license will not work, even if it has a Real ID star. If your license is expiring soon, renew it before your flight. If it has already expired, bring a passport or military ID instead.

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

No. A passport works for any flight and never expires as quickly as a driver's license. If you travel regularly, a passport may be simpler than keeping a Real ID license current. For domestic flights only, either one works.

What if I lost my ID right before my flight?

Contact your state's DMV when ready to see if they can issue a replacement quickly—some states can print one the same day. If not, bring a passport or military ID if you have one. If you have neither, call TSA at 1-866-289-9673 to ask about your options; they may be able to help you through security with other documents.

Can I use a school ID or work ID to fly?

No. TSA requires a government-issued ID. School IDs and work IDs do not count. You need a driver's license, passport, military ID, or similar federal or state ID.

Do children need ID to fly?

Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult. The adult needs valid ID. For international flights, children need a passport regardless of age. Check with your airline before you travel, as some have their own rules.