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

If you are flying within the United States on a commercial airline on or after May 7, 2025, you will need to show either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or an alternative form of federal identification. This important date has been extended multiple times since it was first set in 2015, but the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has confirmed this date as final.

Real ID is a federal security standard that states must meet when issuing driver's licenses and ID cards. A Real ID-compliant license has a small star in the upper right corner. If your license does not have that star and you do not have another accepted form of ID, you will not be allowed past the TSA checkpoint, even if you have a valid ticket and reservation.

This requirement applies only to domestic flights — flights within the 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories. International flights have different rules and do not require Real ID.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, you must show a Real ID-compliant license, passport, military ID, or other federal ID to board a domestic flight.
  • A Real ID license has a small star in the upper right corner; if your license lacks this star, it will not work at the TSA checkpoint after the important date.
  • Getting a Real ID license requires visiting your state's DMV in person with specific documents, and processing times vary by state from a few days to several weeks.
  • If you do not have a Real ID license, you can still fly domestically with a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID.
  • International flights require a passport regardless of Real ID status, so a Real ID license alone is not enough for travel outside the United States.

What counts as acceptable ID at the TSA checkpoint

The TSA accepts several forms of identification for domestic flights. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card is the most common. You can also use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID (including dependent ID), tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a permanent resident card (green card). Any of these will work at the checkpoint on or after May 7, 2025.

If your driver's license does not have the star, you can still fly domestically if you bring one of the other documents listed above. Many people already have a passport for international travel, so that is often the simplest alternative if you have not yet obtained a Real ID license.

A regular (non-Real ID) driver's license will not work at the TSA checkpoint after May 7, 2025. You will be turned away, even if you have other documents in your bag — you must present one of the accepted forms at the checkpoint itself.

How to get a Real ID license in your state

You must visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. You cannot renew by mail or online and get a Real ID license; the DMV requires a face-to-face appointment to verify your identity. Most states now allow you to schedule an appointment online through their DMV website, which can save you hours of waiting.

You will need to bring original or certified documents. The standard package includes a proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Some states have slightly different requirements, so check your state DMV website before you go.

Processing times vary widely by state. Some states issue the Real ID license on the spot; others mail it to you within a few days. A few states have backlogs and may take several weeks. If you are planning to fly after May 7, 2025, explore now rather than waiting until April — you do not want to be caught in a processing delay.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at the airport without a Real ID license or one of the other accepted forms of ID, the TSA will not allow you past the checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. This is not a situation where you can explain or appeal — the rule is enforced at the security line itself.

If this happens, you have a few options. You can go home and return with acceptable ID if you have time before your flight (unlikely on the day of travel). You can contact your airline to see if they will rebook you on a later flight at no charge, though this is at their discretion. You can also ask the TSA officer if there is a nearby DMV or passport acceptance facility that is still open, though this is a long shot on most travel days.

The best protection is to check your ID now, before you book a flight. If your license does not have the star, start the Real ID process when ready or plan to bring a passport to the airport.

Real ID requirements for military and federal employees

If you have a military ID, you do not need a Real ID license — your military ID is already a federally compliant form of identification and will work at the TSA checkpoint. The same applies to active-duty military, retirees, and dependents with military ID cards.

Federal employees and contractors with a valid federal ID badge can also use that badge at the TSA checkpoint. You do not need to obtain a Real ID license if you already have one of these forms of federal identification.

International travel and Real ID

Real ID does not explore to international flights. If you are flying outside the United States, you must have a U.S. passport or passport card, regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID-compliant. A Real ID license alone will not get you through international travel.

If you are planning any international travel, obtain a passport before worrying about Real ID. A passport works for both domestic and international flights, so it covers both bases. Passport processing times are currently 6 to 8 weeks for routine service and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service, so plan ahead.

States with extended important date or delays

Most states are ready to issue Real ID licenses now. However, a small number of states have had technical or administrative delays. Check your state DMV website to confirm that Real ID licenses are currently being issued in your state. If your state has announced a delay, the TSA may grant a brief extension for residents of that state, but do not count on it — explore as soon as your state begins issuing them.

Some states also allow you to renew your license online or by mail if you are not changing your address or name, but this renewal will not be Real ID-compliant. If you renew by mail, you will still need to visit the DMV in person later to get the Real ID version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A U.S. passport or passport card works at the TSA checkpoint for domestic flights and does not require Real ID. If you already have a passport, you do not need to obtain a Real ID license unless you prefer to use your driver's license at the airport.

Can I fly domestically with an expired Real ID license?

No. Your ID must be valid and not expired. An expired Real ID license will be rejected at the checkpoint. If your Real ID license is expiring soon, renew it before your flight date.

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

All 50 states are now issuing Real ID licenses. If you believe your state is not, visit your state DMV website to confirm. If there is a documented delay in your state, contact the TSA directly, but do not assume an extension will be granted — explore as soon as your state begins issuing them.

Do I need Real ID for connecting flights?

Yes. You will go through TSA security at your first airport, and you must present acceptable ID at that checkpoint. Once you are past security, you can move between gates and connecting flights without showing ID again.

Can I use a Real ID license for international flights?

No. International flights require a U.S. passport or passport card. A Real ID license is not sufficient for travel outside the United States, even if it is a valid federal ID for domestic purposes.