Real ID enforcement began in May 2025 for domestic flights

The federal government started enforcing Real ID requirements on May 7, 2025. On that date, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began refusing standard driver's licenses and state ID cards at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights. If your ID does not meet Real ID standards, you will need to show an additional document — such as a passport, passport card, or military ID — to board a domestic flight.

This important date has been delayed multiple times since the original 2020 target. The most recent extension pushed enforcement from May 2023 to May 2025. The Real ID Act itself was passed by Congress in 2005, but states had years to update their systems and issue compliant documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID enforcement at airport security began May 7, 2025, and applies to all domestic flights.
  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID has a gold star or other security feature in the upper right corner and is issued by your state's DMV.
  • If your current ID is not Real ID-compliant, you can still fly domestically by showing a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal document alongside your standard ID.
  • You do not need Real ID for domestic flights if you have a valid passport or other acceptable federal ID.
  • Real ID does not yet explore to trains, buses, or other ground transportation.

How to tell if your ID is Real ID-compliant

A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID displays a gold star, gold circle, or similar security marking in the upper right corner of the card. Some states use different symbols — check your state's DMV website for the exact design. If your license does not have this marking, it is not Real ID-compliant.

The marking is the fastest way to check. You can also contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly and provide your license number. Many state DMV websites have a tool where you can enter your license number to confirm compliance status.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license or ID card

You obtain a Real ID-compliant ID through your state's DMV, the same way you renew a standard driver's license. The process requires you to bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and state residency — typically a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address such as a utility bill or lease.

Processing times vary by state. Some states issue Real ID cards within days; others take several weeks. Many states allow you to renew online or by mail if your current license is not expired, though you may need to visit in person for your first Real ID. Check your state DMV's website for the specific process and current wait times in your area.

There is no federal fee for Real ID itself, but your state may charge a renewal fee as part of the ID issuance. This fee varies — some states charge the same amount as a standard renewal, while others charge slightly more. Contact your state DMV for the exact cost.

What documents work instead of Real ID at airport security

If you do not have a Real ID-compliant license, you can still board a domestic flight by showing a non-compliant ID along with one of these federal documents:

  • A valid U.S. passport or passport card
  • A military ID (active duty, reserve, or retired)
  • A Department of Veterans Affairs ID
  • A Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)
  • A permanent resident card (green card)
  • A U.S. territory ID (from Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, or Northern Mariana Islands)
  • A Native American tribal ID issued by the Bureau of Indian Affairs

You must show both documents — your standard driver's license and one of the acceptable federal IDs listed above. The TSA officer will check both at the checkpoint.

Real ID and international travel

Real ID does not affect international travel. If you are flying outside the United States, you need a valid passport regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID-compliant. Real ID applies only to domestic flights within the United States.

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, a passport is your only acceptable document at airport security for international flights. A Real ID-compliant driver's license alone will not work for international travel.

What happens if you show up without Real ID or an alternative document

If you arrive at airport security without a Real ID-compliant license and without one of the acceptable federal documents listed above, the TSA officer will not allow you to proceed through the checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight.

Some airports have TSA PreCheck or other expedited screening programs. These programs do not waive the Real ID requirement — you still need either a Real ID license or an acceptable federal document to use them.

Real ID and other uses beyond air travel

Real ID is currently required only for domestic air travel. It does not yet explore to trains, buses, or other ground transportation. You do not need Real ID to enter federal buildings, explore for a job, or conduct other everyday activities.

The federal government has discussed extending Real ID requirements to other forms of transportation and federal facilities in the future, but no timeline has been set. For now, the requirement applies only to TSA checkpoints for domestic flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online and get Real ID?

It depends on your state. Some states allow online renewal for Real ID if your current license is not expired and you meet other requirements. Others require an in-person visit. Check your state DMV website or call them directly to find out whether online renewal is available in your state.

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A valid passport works at airport security for domestic flights and does not require a Real ID-compliant driver's license. You can use your passport alone to board a domestic flight.

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

All U.S. states and territories now issue Real ID-compliant IDs. If you have not received one, contact your state DMV to request one. You can also use one of the acceptable federal documents listed above to board a domestic flight in the meantime.

Does Real ID cost extra?

Real ID itself has no federal fee, but your state may charge a renewal fee when you explore. The cost varies by state — some charge the same as a standard renewal, others charge more. Contact your state DMV for the exact fee.

Can I use my old license for domestic flights after May 2025?

Only if you also show an acceptable federal document such as a passport or military ID. A non-compliant driver's license alone will not work at TSA checkpoints after May 7, 2025.