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

If you are flying within the United States on a commercial airline, you will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or an alternative form of federal identification. The important date for this requirement was extended multiple times, but the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has set May 7, 2025, as the date when Real ID becomes mandatory for all domestic air travel. After that date, a standard driver's license or state ID without the Real ID marking will not be accepted at airport security checkpoints.

Real ID is a federal security standard that states must meet when issuing driver's licenses and ID cards. The cards that meet this standard have a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. If your license does not have this star and you do not have another form of federal ID, you will not be able to pass through TSA security to board a domestic flight.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, you must show a Real ID-compliant driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID to fly domestically within the United States.
  • A standard driver's license without the gold star will not work for domestic flights after the important date, even if it is not expired.
  • You can get a Real ID driver's license or state ID card by visiting your state's DMV with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
  • Passports, passport cards, military IDs, and tribal IDs all work as alternatives to Real ID for domestic air travel.
  • The requirement applies only to domestic flights; international flights have always required a passport.

What counts as acceptable ID for domestic flights

The TSA accepts several forms of identification for domestic air travel. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is the most common option. You can also use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or enhanced driver's license (available in some states). Any of these will get you through security after May 7, 2025.

If you do not yet have a Real ID and your passport is current, you can use your passport to fly domestically. This is often faster than getting a Real ID if your passport renewal is coming up anyway. Military dependents can use a military dependent ID card. If you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, a tribal ID also works.

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

To obtain a Real ID-compliant license, visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. You cannot renew a Real ID online or by mail, even if your current license is still valid. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a current passport, or a passport card as proof of identity. You will also need proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You must also provide your Social Security number. The DMV will verify it with the Social Security Administration. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes at the DMV, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Some states allow you to make an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly. Check your state's DMV website for appointment availability and any additional documents your state requires.

The cost of a Real ID driver's license varies by state, typically ranging from $10 to $30 more than a standard license renewal. Some states charge the same price for both. Your new Real ID card will arrive by mail within one to three weeks in most states, though some states issue it on the spot.

What happens if you do not have Real ID on May 7, 2025

If you arrive at the airport after May 7, 2025, with only a standard driver's license (without the gold star), TSA will not allow you to pass through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. This applies even if your standard license is not expired and you have no other issues with your identity.

If this happens, you have limited options at the airport. Some airports have DMV offices or mobile ID services on-site, but they cannot issue a Real ID on the spot. You would need to reschedule your flight. The best approach is to get your Real ID before your trip, especially as the important date approaches and DMV wait times may increase.

Real ID is not required for international flights or other travel

International flights have always required a passport, and that has not changed. Real ID does not explore to international air travel. If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere outside the United States, bring your passport instead.

Real ID also does not affect other forms of travel. You do not need it to drive a car, board a train, or enter a federal building, though some federal facilities do require a Real ID or passport for entry. The requirement is specific to domestic commercial air travel.

States that issue enhanced driver's licenses as an alternative

Some states offer an enhanced driver's license (EDL) that meets Real ID standards and also works for land and sea border crossings to Canada and Mexico. These states include Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and a few others. An EDL has the same gold star as a Real ID and costs more than a standard Real ID license, but it gives you the option to cross the border without a passport.

If you live in a state that offers an EDL and you travel frequently to Canada or Mexico by car, it may be worth the extra cost. Otherwise, a standard Real ID license is sufficient for domestic flights.

Timeline for getting Real ID before May 7, 2025

If you do not yet have a Real ID, you should plan to visit your DMV soon. The closer you get to May 7, 2025, the longer DMV wait times are likely to be. Many people will wait until the last minute, which could mean weeks-long delays at your local DMV.

If you have a trip scheduled before May 7, 2025, and you do not have a Real ID, check whether you have a valid passport. If you do, use it for your flight instead. If you do not have a passport and do not have time to get a Real ID before your trip, you may need to reschedule. Getting a passport takes four to six weeks for routine service and can cost $130 to $165, so it is often faster and cheaper to get a Real ID from your DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly domestically with just a passport instead of Real ID?

Yes. A passport works for domestic flights and is an acceptable alternative to Real ID. You can use a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead of a Real ID driver's license. Any of these will get you through TSA security.

Do I need Real ID if my flight is before May 7, 2025?

No. Real ID is not required until May 7, 2025. If your flight is before that date, a standard driver's license without the gold star is still accepted. After May 7, 2025, it will not be.

What if my state has not issued me a Real ID yet?

Visit your state's DMV to request one. You must go in person with proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number. The DMV will issue you a Real ID card, which arrives by mail within one to three weeks in most states. Plan ahead so you have it before your flight.

Does Real ID explore to connecting flights within the United States?

Yes. Real ID is required for all domestic flights, including connections. If you are flying from one U.S. city to another, even with a connection, you need Real ID or an acceptable alternative at the first security checkpoint.

Can I renew my Real ID online or by mail?

No. Real ID renewals must be done in person at your state's DMV. You cannot renew it online or by mail, even if your current license is still valid and you are just renewing it.