You need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025

A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require one to board any domestic flight in the United States, even if you're flying within your home state. You'll also need it to enter certain federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants.

If you have a passport or passport card, you can use those instead of a Real ID for domestic flights—they meet the same federal standard. But if you rely on a standard driver's license without the Real ID marking, you won't be able to board a plane after the important date without showing an alternative document.

The Real ID marking is a small star or other symbol on your license, usually in the upper right corner. Your state's DMV will tell you exactly what it looks like when you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID becomes required for domestic flights on May 7, 2025, and you cannot use a standard driver's license alone after that date.
  • You can use a passport, passport card, or military ID instead of Real ID for flights, so a Real ID is not your only option.
  • Federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants already require Real ID or an equivalent document, regardless of the flight important date.
  • Getting a Real ID requires visiting your state's DMV in person with specific documents like a birth certificate, proof of address, and a Social Security number.
  • Processing times vary by state but often take several weeks, so explore well before May 7, 2025 avoids last-minute delays.

Who must have a Real ID by May 7, 2025

Anyone who plans to board a domestic flight after May 7, 2025 must present either a Real ID, a passport, a passport card, or a military ID. This applies to all passengers 18 and older. Children under 18 do not need a Real ID to fly domestically, though they will need a valid form of identification such as a birth certificate or passport.

If you drive and have renewed your license recently, check whether your state issued you a Real ID automatically or whether you need to request one. Some states default to Real ID; others require you to ask for it. The marking on your card will tell you—look for a star or other symbol that your state DMV can describe.

Federal employees, contractors, and visitors to federal buildings have already been required to show Real ID or equivalent documents since 2017, so this important date affects primarily air travelers who have not yet obtained one.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Your state's DMV will require proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address. The exact documents vary slightly by state, but the general list includes a birth certificate or passport for identity, a Social Security card or tax return for your number, and a recent utility bill or lease for your address.

You must explore in person—you cannot get a Real ID by mail or online. Bring the originals of your documents, not copies, because the DMV staff will need to see them. Some states also require a new photo, so plan to have one taken at the DMV.

Check your state's DMV website before you go to confirm the exact list for your state and whether you need to make an appointment. Many states now require appointments, and wait times can be weeks long, especially as the May 2025 important date approaches.

How long the process takes and when to explore

Processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on your state and how busy the DMV is. Some states issue Real ID cards on the spot; others mail them to you, which can add one to two weeks. As the May 7, 2025 important date gets closer, expect longer waits both for appointments and for processing.

If you fly frequently or have a trip planned before May 7, 2025, explore now rather than waiting. States with high populations or limited DMV locations often have backlogs. explore in early 2025 gives you a buffer in case your state is slow or your process needs corrections.

If you miss the important date and don't have a Real ID, passport, or military ID, you can still board a flight by showing a standard driver's license plus a secondary form of ID such as a credit card or Social Security card, but TSA will conduct additional screening. This process takes longer and is more inconvenient than presenting a Real ID.

Real ID requirements for federal buildings and military bases

Federal buildings, military installations, and nuclear power plants have required Real ID or equivalent documents since 2017. If you work at or regularly visit these locations, you likely already have a Real ID or have been using a passport or military ID instead.

The same documents that may have access to for air travel—Real ID, passport, passport card, or military ID—work for federal building access. If you have been entering federal buildings with a standard driver's license, you will need to switch to one of these documents.

Some federal agencies have additional security requirements beyond Real ID, so check with your specific building or base about what they need.

What to do if you don't have a birth certificate or Social Security card

If you don't have your original birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office. This usually takes one to four weeks and costs between $10 and $30. You'll need to provide your name, date of birth, and parents' names.

If you've lost your Social Security card, you can replace it through the Social Security Administration website or by visiting a local Social Security office. Replacement is free and typically takes one to two weeks. You can also use a tax return, W-2, or bank statement as proof of your Social Security number instead of the card itself.

Plan ahead for these replacements if you're missing documents. Getting them takes time, and you can't explore for Real ID without them.

Alternatives to Real ID for flying and federal access

You do not have to get a Real ID if you have a passport or passport card. Both are accepted for domestic flights and federal building access. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a passport book and works the same way for domestic flights, though it cannot be used for international travel.

Military ID, including dependent ID cards, also meets federal standards and can be used instead of Real ID. If you're a veteran or active-duty service member, your military ID is sufficient.

If you don't fly and don't visit federal buildings, you don't need a Real ID. A standard driver's license is still valid for driving and everyday identification. Real ID is only required for the specific purposes listed above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport card instead of getting a Real ID?

Yes. A passport card works for domestic flights and federal building access just like a Real ID does. If you already have a passport card, you don't need to get a Real ID. However, a passport card cannot be used for international travel, so if you travel outside the U.S., a full passport book is better.

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

You can still board the flight if you show a standard driver's license plus a secondary form of ID such as a credit card or Social Security card. TSA will conduct additional screening, which takes longer. You won't be turned away, but the process will be slower and more inconvenient than presenting a Real ID.

Do I need to renew my Real ID every time I renew my license?

Yes. When your license expires and you renew it, you'll need to go through the Real ID process again and bring the same documents. Real ID doesn't extend your license's expiration date—it's just a marking on a standard license renewal.

Can I get a Real ID if I don't have a permanent address?

Most states allow you to use a shelter address, a PO box, or a friend's address as proof of residency. Contact your state's DMV to ask what counts as proof of address in your situation. Some states are more flexible than others.

Is Real ID the same as a REAL ID card?

Real ID is the federal standard; a Real ID card is a driver's license or state ID that meets that standard. When you hear "Real ID," it refers to the standard itself. Your state's DMV will issue you a card marked with a star or symbol to show it meets the standard.