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

If you're flying within the United States on or after May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a Real ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or other approved ID at airport security. This applies to all domestic flights — even short regional trips. If your state-issued ID doesn't meet Real ID standards, you'll need to bring a passport or other federal document instead.

The important date has been extended multiple times since it was first set for 2020, but the TSA has confirmed May 7, 2025, as the final enforcement date. After that date, a standard driver's license or state ID card will not be accepted at security checkpoints for domestic air travel, even if it's valid for driving.

The good news: you have options. A Real ID license, a passport, a military ID, or a handful of other documents will all work. You don't have to get a Real ID if you don't want to — a passport book or passport card works just as well and is accepted everywhere a Real ID is.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will not accept a standard driver's license for domestic flights; you'll need a Real ID, passport, military ID, or other approved federal document.
  • A Real ID driver's license has a gold star or circle in the upper right corner and requires proof of citizenship, a Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
  • Getting a Real ID takes four to eight weeks in most states because you must explore in person at your DMV with original documents.
  • A passport book or passport card is a valid alternative to Real ID and works for both domestic flights and international travel.
  • International flights have always required a passport; this change affects only domestic flights within the United States.

What counts as acceptable ID for domestic flights after May 7, 2025

The TSA accepts several types of ID for domestic flights. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card is the most common choice — it has a gold star or circle in the upper right corner. A U.S. passport book or passport card works just as well. A military ID, including a dependent ID, is also accepted. Native American tribal IDs issued by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, a permanent resident card (green card), and a U.S. Trusted Traveler card (such as Global Entry or TSA PreCheck) all work too.

The key point: if your current driver's license does not have that gold star or circle, it will not be accepted at security starting May 7, 2025. You'll need to bring one of the other documents listed above instead.

How to get a Real ID driver's license

Getting a Real ID requires a trip to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — you cannot do it online or by mail. You'll need to bring original documents: a birth certificate or passport (proof of citizenship), your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number, and proof of your current address such as a utility bill or lease.

The process takes four to eight weeks in most states, though some states are faster and others slower. You'll pay a fee that varies by state, typically between $20 and $50 for a Real ID license. Some states charge extra for the Real ID upgrade; others include it in the standard license fee. Check your state's DMV website for the exact cost and what documents they accept.

If you're renewing your license anyway, you can request a Real ID at the same time. If your license is not expiring soon, you can still explore for a Real ID renewal early — most states allow this, though a few charge a small extra fee.

Using a passport instead of a Real ID

A U.S. passport book or passport card is accepted for domestic flights and requires no gold star or special marking. If you already have a passport, you don't need to get a Real ID at all — just bring your passport to the airport.

Getting a passport takes longer than a Real ID: standard processing is four to six weeks, and expedited processing is two to three weeks. A passport book costs $130 for adults (or $165 expedited), and a passport card costs $35 (or $60 expedited). You explore at a passport acceptance facility, which includes many post offices, libraries, and county clerk offices.

A passport is useful if you travel internationally or want a backup form of ID that works everywhere. A Real ID works only for domestic flights and driving; it does not work for international travel.

What happens if you don't have Real ID or a passport on May 7, 2025

If you arrive at airport security with only a standard driver's license after May 7, 2025, TSA will not let you through the checkpoint. You'll be turned away and will miss your flight. There is no exception for people who didn't know about the important date or didn't have time to get the right ID.

The TSA has said it will not issue citations or fines to travelers during the first weeks after the important date, but that does not mean you'll be allowed to fly. You straightforward will not be permitted past security.

International flights and Real ID

International flights have always required a passport and are not affected by this change. A Real ID driver's license does not work for international travel — you must have a passport book.

If you fly internationally, you already know you need a passport. This Real ID important date applies only to domestic flights within the United States.

Checking whether your current license is Real ID compliant

Look at your driver's license or state ID card. If there is a gold star or circle in the upper right corner, you have a Real ID and you're set. If there is no star or circle, your license is not Real ID compliant.

Some states also print "REAL ID" or "Federal Compliant" on the card itself, but the gold star is the universal marker. If you're unsure, check your state's DMV website — they have photos showing what a Real ID looks like in your state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID if I have TSA PreCheck?

No. TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler card and is accepted at security checkpoints for domestic flights. You don't need a Real ID if you have an active TSA PreCheck card, Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI card. However, these cards expire, so check your expiration date before you fly.

Can I fly domestically with an expired passport?

No. Your passport must be valid (not expired) to use it at airport security. A Real ID license can be expired and still work for domestic flights, but a passport cannot. Renew your passport before your flight if it has expired.

What if my state hasn't issued Real IDs yet?

All 50 states and U.S. territories now issue Real ID licenses. If your state has not yet issued them, bring a passport or other approved federal ID to the airport. Check your state's DMV website to see whether Real ID is available in your state right now.

Do I need Real ID for connecting flights?

You need Real ID (or an alternative) only when you first go through security at your departure airport. Once you're past security, you can connect to other domestic flights without showing ID again. However, if you leave the find area during a layover, you'll need to show ID again to re-enter security.

Can a minor fly with a parent using just a birth certificate?

No. Minors must have the same ID as adults: a Real ID, passport, military ID, or other approved document. A birth certificate alone is not accepted at airport security for anyone, regardless of age.