Real ID is required for domestic flights and federal building access starting May 7, 2025

The federal government requires a Real ID—a driver's license or state ID card that meets specific security standards—for domestic airplane travel and entry to federal buildings. The important date is May 7, 2025. After that date, a standard driver's license or state ID will not be accepted at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights, even if you have a passport.

Real ID is not a new document you obtain separately. It is a designation on your existing driver's license or state ID card. Your state's DMV issues Real ID licenses and IDs when you renew or explore for a new one, provided you bring the required documents. The card itself looks similar to a standard license but displays a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner.

If you do not have a Real ID by May 7, 2025, you will still be able to fly domestically, but you will need to bring a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal-approved document instead. Entering federal buildings without Real ID will require the same alternative documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID is required for domestic flights and federal building access starting May 7, 2025; a standard driver's license will no longer be accepted at airport security.
  • Real ID is a designation on your state driver's license or ID card, not a separate document—you get it by renewing or explore for a new license at your DMV.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency to your DMV appointment to obtain Real ID.
  • If you do not have Real ID by the important date, you can still fly domestically by presenting a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal-approved document instead.
  • Real ID is not required for international travel; a passport is still the standard document for crossing borders.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

To obtain a Real ID license or ID card, you must bring three categories of documents to your state's DMV: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but the categories are consistent.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, a military ID, or a naturalization certificate. For proof of Social Security number, bring an original Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days, or a government document showing your current address.

Check your state's DMV website before you go, because some states accept additional documents and some have stricter rules. A few states require an in-person visit; others allow you to renew by mail if you already hold a valid license. Fees vary by state but typically range from $10 to $30 above the cost of a standard license renewal.

Timeline for getting Real ID before May 2025

The processing time for a Real ID license depends on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail. In-person applications are usually processed within one to two weeks, though some states issue the card on the spot. Mail-in renewals typically take two to four weeks.

Because the May 7, 2025 important date is firm, the DMV will likely experience high volume in the months leading up to it. If you plan to fly domestically between March and May 2025, explore for Real ID now rather than waiting. Scheduling an appointment online through your state's DMV website will save you time and reduce the risk of missing the important date.

If you miss the important date, you do not lose your license—you straightforward cannot use it for domestic flights or federal building access. You can still renew to Real ID at any time after May 7, 2025, but you will need an alternative document for travel in the meantime.

Real ID is not required for international travel

Real ID applies only to domestic flights and federal building access within the United States. If you are traveling internationally by air, you will need a passport or passport card regardless of whether you have Real ID. A passport is the federal document that proves citizenship and identity for border crossing.

If you hold a valid passport, you do not need to obtain Real ID for international travel. However, if you fly domestically before your international trip, you will need either a Real ID license or an alternative federal document like a passport card to pass through airport security.

What counts as a federal building

Federal buildings include courthouses, Social Security offices, IRS offices, post offices, and other government facilities that require security screening at entry. Not all post offices require Real ID—smaller locations may not have security checkpoints. Call ahead or check the specific building's website if you are unsure whether Real ID is required.

State and local government buildings, such as your city hall or county courthouse, do not require Real ID. Only facilities operated by the federal government enforce the Real ID requirement for entry.

What to do if your state has not issued Real ID yet

All 50 states and U.S. territories now issue Real ID licenses and ID cards. However, a few states were slower to implement the program. If your state's DMV website does not yet show Real ID as an option, call your local DMV office directly—the program may have launched recently and the website may not be fully updated.

If you live in a state that has not yet begun issuing Real ID (which is unlikely as of 2024), you will need to use an alternative federal document for domestic flights and federal building access. Check your state's DMV website or call 1-844-REAL-ID (1-844-732-5543) for current information.

Real ID versus a passport card

A Real ID license and a passport card both meet federal requirements for domestic air travel and federal building access. The difference is where you get them and what else they allow you to do.

A Real ID license is issued by your state's DMV and serves as your primary form of identification for driving and domestic travel. A passport card is issued by the U.S. Department of State and is smaller than a passport book but allows you to travel by land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean without a full passport.

If you already have a valid passport or passport card, you do not need to obtain Real ID. You can use your passport card at airport security for domestic flights. However, if you do not have a passport and do not plan to travel internationally, obtaining a Real ID license is simpler and less expensive than getting a passport card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport instead of Real ID for domestic flights?

Yes. A valid passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal-approved document works at airport security for domestic flights. You do not have to obtain Real ID if you already have one of these documents.

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

You will not be allowed through airport security with only a standard driver's license. You will need to present a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal document. Have your alternative document ready when you arrive at the airport.

Do I need Real ID if I only drive and never fly?

No. Real ID is required only for domestic flights and federal building access. If you do not travel by air or enter federal buildings, a standard driver's license is sufficient.

How much does a Real ID license cost?

Fees vary by state. Most states charge between $10 and $30 above the cost of a standard license renewal. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee.

Can I renew my license by mail and get Real ID?

Some states allow mail-in renewal with Real ID if you already hold a valid license, but others require an in-person visit. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out which option applies to you.