Real ID is required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025

If you are flying within the United States on a commercial airline after May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require you to show a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card at the airport checkpoint. A regular driver's license issued before your state adopted Real ID standards will not work. You will need either a Real ID license, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a few other federal documents — but a standard state ID is no longer enough.

This important date has been pushed back multiple times since the original 2020 target. The TSA has confirmed May 7, 2025, as the enforcement date. After that date, you cannot board a domestic flight with an expired or non-compliant ID, even if you have a boarding pass.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, a regular state driver's license will not get you through TSA security for domestic flights unless your state has already issued Real ID licenses.
  • A passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID will work instead of a Real ID license if you do not have one yet.
  • Getting a Real ID license requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the process takes two to eight weeks depending on your state.
  • Real ID is only required for domestic flights; international flights have always required a passport regardless of Real ID status.
  • If you fly before May 7, 2025, your current state ID will still work, giving you time to get a Real ID license if you do not already have one.

Which states have already issued Real ID licenses

Most states have been issuing Real ID-compliant licenses since 2017 or later. When you renew your driver's license or state ID, your state's DMV will issue a Real ID version by default in most cases — you do not have to ask for it separately. The card will have a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner, or your state may use a different marking (check your state's DMV website for the exact symbol).

A few states have taken longer to roll out Real ID. If you live in one of these states and have not renewed your license recently, your current ID may not be Real ID-compliant. The fastest way to check is to look at your driver's license: if it has the star or your state's Real ID marking, you are set. If it does not, contact your state's DMV or visit their website to confirm whether your license meets the standard.

Even if your state has not fully transitioned, you can still fly after May 7, 2025 — you just need to bring a passport, passport card, military ID, or another accepted federal document instead of your driver's license.

What documents work at the airport checkpoint instead of Real ID

The TSA accepts several documents at security checkpoints for domestic flights. A U.S. passport or passport card works for any domestic flight. A military ID (including dependent ID cards) works. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe works. A NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST card (trusted traveler programs) works. A state ID for people with disabilities (REAL ID-compliant) works.

If you do not have a Real ID license and do not want to get one, a passport is the simplest alternative. A passport card costs the same as a passport book and works for land and sea travel as well as domestic flights, though it cannot be used for international air travel. The passport card is smaller and easier to carry than a passport book.

If you are a frequent flyer without a Real ID license, a TSA PreCheck membership ($78 to $85 for five years) lets you use a trusted traveler card at security, which also works instead of a Real ID license. You still need to show photo ID, but the card counts as acceptable ID.

How to get a Real ID license before May 7, 2025

Visit your state's DMV in person — you cannot renew a Real ID license by mail or online. Bring three documents: proof of identity (your current driver's license, passport, or birth certificate), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). Some states accept a broader range of documents, so check your state's DMV website for the exact list.

The fee for a Real ID license is usually the same as a regular license renewal, though a few states charge a small upgrade fee ($5 to $15). Processing time varies by state: some issue the card on the spot, while others mail it within two to eight weeks. If you need the license quickly, ask the DMV whether expedited processing is available and what it costs.

If you are renewing your license anyway, ask for a Real ID license when you visit the DMV. Most states will issue it automatically, but some require you to request it specifically. Do not wait until April 2025 to renew — the DMV will be extremely busy as the important date approaches, and you may not receive your card in time.

What happens if you show up without Real ID after May 7, 2025

If you arrive at the airport checkpoint with a non-compliant ID after May 7, 2025, the TSA officer will not let you through security. You will not be able to board your flight. You cannot go back to your car, get your passport, and return — you will miss your flight.

The TSA has said it will not issue citations or fines for the first few months after the important date, but that grace period is temporary. After that, you could face a fine. More when ready, you will lose the cost of your ticket and any travel plans you made.

If you realize at the airport that you do not have acceptable ID, some airports have a DMV office or mobile DMV unit on-site, but they cannot issue a Real ID license on the spot — they can only help with certain documents. Your only option at that point is to reschedule your flight.

Real ID does not explore to international flights or other travel

Real ID is only for domestic flights. If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere outside the United States, you have always needed a passport, and you still do — Real ID does not change that. A passport is the only document that works for international air travel.

For travel by car, train, or bus within the United States, Real ID is not required. You can use your current state ID for Amtrak, Greyhound, or driving across state lines. Real ID only applies to commercial airline security checkpoints.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired Real ID license?

No. Your ID must be valid (not expired) to pass through security, whether it is Real ID or not. An expired Real ID license will not work. You will need to renew it before your flight, or bring a different acceptable document like a passport.

Do I need Real ID if I have TSA PreCheck?

No. TSA PreCheck members can use their trusted traveler card at security instead of a Real ID license. You still need to show photo ID, but the PreCheck card satisfies that requirement. However, you still need a valid passport for international flights.

What if my state has not issued Real ID licenses yet?

A few states have moved slowly on Real ID rollout. Check your state's DMV website to see the current status. If your state is still not issuing them, bring a passport, passport card, military ID, or another accepted federal document to the airport instead of your driver's license.

Can I get a Real ID license if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes, but you will need an alternative proof of identity. Acceptable documents vary by state but usually include a passport, naturalization certificate, or adoption papers. Contact your state's DMV to find out which documents they accept in place of a birth certificate.

Will my passport card work for a domestic flight?

Yes. A passport card is a valid form of ID for domestic flights and works instead of a Real ID license. It is smaller and cheaper than a passport book, though it cannot be used for international air travel.