Real ID requirements took effect on May 7, 2025

As of May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security began enforcing Real ID requirements for all domestic air travel. This means that if you want to board a domestic flight—including flights within the 50 states, Washington D.C., U.S. territories, and tribal lands—you must present either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, or an acceptable alternative form of identification.

Before this date, you could board a domestic flight with a regular (non-Real ID) driver's license or state ID. That is no longer the case. If your state ID or driver's license does not have a Real ID marking—usually a gold or black star in the upper right corner—you will need to bring a different form of ID to the airport, such as a passport, military ID, or tribal ID.

This requirement does not explore to international flights, which have always required a passport or passport card. It also does not explore to train travel, car rental, or hotel check-in, though some states have chosen to require Real ID for other purposes.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, domestic airline passengers must show a Real ID-compliant driver's license, state ID, or an acceptable alternative like a passport.
  • A Real ID is marked with a gold or black star, usually in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID card.
  • If your ID does not have the star, you can still fly domestically by bringing a passport, military ID, passport card, or tribal ID instead.
  • Getting a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID requires visiting your state's DMV in person with specific documents like a birth certificate and proof of address.
  • This requirement applies only to domestic flights; international flights still require a passport.

How to tell if your ID is Real ID-compliant

The easiest way to check is to look at your driver's license or state ID card. A Real ID-compliant ID has a gold or black star printed on it, usually in the upper right corner. If your card has this star, you are ready to fly domestically without bringing any other ID.

If your ID does not have a star, it is not Real ID-compliant. This does not mean your ID is invalid for other purposes—you can still use it to drive, enter federal buildings, or access other services depending on your state. It straightforward means you cannot use it alone to board a domestic flight after May 7, 2025.

Some states print the star in different locations or use different colors, so if you are unsure, you can contact your state's DMV directly or visit the Department of Homeland Security website, which lists each state's Real ID design.

What to bring to the airport if you don't have Real ID

If your driver's license or state ID does not have the Real ID star, you have several options for boarding a domestic flight. You can bring a valid U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, a permanent resident card, or a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services employment authorization document. Any of these will work in place of a Real ID-compliant driver's license.

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepts these documents at security checkpoints. You do not need to carry multiple forms of ID—one acceptable form is enough. However, you should arrive at the airport with extra time to allow TSA agents to examine your alternative ID if they are unfamiliar with it.

If you do not have any of these documents, you will not be able to board a domestic flight. This is why many people have chosen to get a Real ID-compliant license or state ID before the important date.

How to get a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID

To get a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, you must visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. You cannot renew or obtain a Real ID online or by mail, even if your state normally allows online or mail renewals for regular licenses.

You will need to bring specific documents. Most states require a birth certificate or passport (proof of citizenship or legal residency), a Social Security card or tax return (proof of Social Security number), and two documents showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Some states have slightly different requirements, so check your state DMV's website before you go.

The cost varies by state, typically ranging from $20 to $100 for a Real ID-compliant license or ID card. Processing times also vary—some states issue the card on the spot, while others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Plan ahead, especially if your state is experiencing high demand.

Why Real ID was created and what it means for your information

Real ID is a federal security standard created after the September 11 attacks. The goal was to establish a baseline of security features that all state-issued IDs must meet, making it harder to create fake IDs and easier for federal agencies to verify identity at airports and federal buildings.

To get a Real ID-compliant ID, you must provide more documentation than you would for a regular driver's license, and the DMV conducts a more thorough background check. Your information is stored in your state's DMV database, not in a federal database. The federal government does not collect or store Real ID data separately—it straightforward verifies that your ID meets the security standard when you present it at an airport.

If you have concerns about privacy, remember that you can always use a passport or other alternative ID instead of a Real ID-compliant driver's license. The choice is yours.

Real ID and state ID cards versus driver's licenses

You can get a Real ID-compliant state ID card instead of a driver's license if you do not drive or prefer not to have a license. The process is the same—you visit the DMV in person with the required documents—and the cost is usually the same or slightly lower. The state ID card has the same gold or black star and works identically for airport security and federal building access.

Some people choose a state ID card because they do not drive, have let their license expire, or want a separate ID for federal purposes. The choice between a Real ID driver's license and a Real ID state ID is entirely up to you and your state's DMV.

What happens if you try to board a flight without acceptable ID after May 7, 2025

If you arrive at the airport without a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID and without an acceptable alternative form of ID, TSA will not allow you to pass through security. You will not be able to board your flight. TSA may ask you additional questions to verify your identity, but without acceptable ID, you will be turned away.

If this happens, you will need to leave the airport and obtain an acceptable form of ID before you can fly. This is why it is important to check your ID before your flight and, if necessary, bring a passport or other alternative ID with you to the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A valid passport works for domestic flights and always has. You do not need a Real ID-compliant driver's license if you have a passport. However, many people find a Real ID-compliant driver's license more convenient for everyday use, since you do not need to carry a passport for domestic travel.

Can I renew my driver's license online and get Real ID at the same time?

No. Real ID-compliant licenses and IDs must be obtained in person at the DMV. Even if your state allows online or mail renewals for regular licenses, you must visit the DMV in person to get a Real ID. Plan ahead and check your state DMV's website for appointment availability.

What if my state hasn't issued Real ID cards yet?

All 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories now issue Real ID-compliant licenses and IDs. If you have not received yours yet, contact your state DMV to find out how to obtain one. You can also use an alternative form of ID like a passport in the meantime.

Does Real ID explore to flying to Puerto Rico or Guam?

Yes. Puerto Rico, Guam, and other U.S. territories are considered domestic destinations for Real ID purposes. You need a Real ID-compliant license, state ID, or acceptable alternative to fly there from the mainland.

Can I use a Real ID-compliant license to enter a federal building or courthouse?

Yes. Real ID-compliant licenses and IDs work for federal building access and courthouse entry in addition to domestic air travel. This is one reason many people have chosen to get a Real ID, even if they do not fly frequently.