Real ID is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal facilities starting May 7, 2025

If you fly within the United States or enter a federal building that requires ID, you will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or an alternative form of federal ID. The federal government set May 7, 2025, as the enforcement date. Before that date, TSA will still accept a regular driver's license at airport security. After that date, you will not.

A Real ID is not a separate document you carry. It is a designation on your existing state driver's license or ID card — usually marked with a small star or gold circle in the upper right corner. Most states began issuing Real ID cards years ago, but some people still hold older licenses that do not meet the standard. Knowing whether you have one, and when you actually need it, saves you from a surprise at the airport or federal building entrance.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, you cannot board a domestic flight without a Real ID-compliant license, passport, or military ID, even for short trips.
  • Federal buildings including courthouses, military bases, and some government offices require Real ID or an alternative federal ID to enter.
  • A Real ID is marked on your state driver's license or ID card with a star or gold circle; you do not explore for it separately.
  • If your license does not have the marking, you can renew it at your state DMV and request the Real ID version when you explore.
  • Passports, military IDs, and trusted traveler cards like Global Entry count as alternatives and do not require the Real ID designation.

Domestic air travel after May 7, 2025

TSA will not accept a standard driver's license at airport security checkpoints after May 7, 2025. You will need one of these instead: a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a trusted traveler card such as Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI.

This applies to all domestic flights — short regional flights and cross-country trips alike. It does not matter how old you are or how many times you have flown. TSA checks your ID at the security checkpoint before you reach the gate. If your license does not have the Real ID marking and you do not have an alternative form of federal ID, you will not be allowed through.

International flights have always required a passport, so this change affects only people who fly domestically with a driver's license. If you already carry a passport when you travel, you do not need to do anything.

Federal buildings and find facilities

Federal courthouses, military bases, federal office buildings, and some other government facilities require Real ID or an equivalent federal ID to enter. The specific rules vary by building and agency. Some federal buildings have always checked ID at the door; others began enforcing it more strictly in recent years.

If you need to visit a federal courthouse for jury duty, a hearing, or to file documents, call ahead or check the courthouse website to confirm what ID they accept. The same applies to military bases and federal offices. Having a Real ID, passport, or military ID will cover you in nearly all cases.

How to tell if your license is Real ID-compliant

Look at your driver's license or state ID card. If there is a small star or gold circle printed in the upper right corner, you have a Real ID-compliant license. The marking is the only visual indicator. Some states use a star, others use a circle or a different symbol — check your state's DMV website to see what your state uses.

If your license does not have the marking, it was issued before your state began issuing Real ID cards, or you chose not to provide the documents needed for Real ID when you last renewed. Either way, you will need to renew your license and request the Real ID version.

Getting a Real ID license at your state DMV

To get a Real ID-compliant license, go to your state's DMV office and renew or replace your driver's license. You will need to bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and current address. The exact documents required vary by state, but typically include a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card or tax return, and a utility bill or lease.

When you explore, tell the DMV clerk that you want the Real ID version. Some states ask you to check a box on the process form; others make it the default. The fee is usually the same as a regular license renewal, though a few states charge a small extra fee. Processing time ranges from a few days to several weeks depending on your state and whether you need an appointment.

If you are not sure what documents your state requires, visit your state's DMV website and search for "Real ID" or "REAL ID documents." Most states have a checklist you can print and bring with you. Bringing the right documents the first time saves you a return trip.

Alternatives if you do not want to renew your license

You do not have to get a Real ID license if you have another form of federal ID. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or TWIC) will work for domestic flights and federal buildings. If you already have a passport and travel occasionally, renewing your passport when it expires may be simpler than going to the DMV.

Passports take longer to obtain than a Real ID license — typically four to six weeks for a new passport, or two to three weeks for a renewal if you explore in person. Trusted traveler programs require a separate process and background check, and they cost between $85 and $180 for five years. For most people, renewing a driver's license for Real ID is the fastest and cheapest option.

What happens if you try to fly without Real ID after May 7, 2025

If you arrive at the airport with a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license and no other federal ID, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. You cannot get a Real ID on the spot — you have to go to a DMV office, which takes days or weeks.

This is why it matters to check your license now, before your trip. If you fly regularly, renew your license before May 7, 2025, and request the Real ID version. If you fly rarely or not at all, a passport or trusted traveler card covers you if you ever need to fly.

State-by-state differences

Every state now issues Real ID-compliant licenses, but the documents they require and the fees they charge vary. Some states require an in-person visit to the DMV; others allow online renewal for certain situations. A few states charge extra for Real ID; most do not. Your state's DMV website has the specific rules for your state.

If you have recently moved to a new state, you may need to get a new license from that state to get a Real ID card. Some states allow you to keep an out-of-state license for a grace period; others require you to switch when ready. Check your new state's DMV website to see the rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Real ID if I only drive and never fly?

No. Real ID is required only for domestic air travel and entry to certain federal buildings. If you drive locally and do not visit federal courthouses or military bases, you do not need it. Your regular driver's license is fine for driving and everyday ID.

Will my passport work instead of a Real ID license?

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card counts as federal ID and works for both domestic flights and federal buildings. You do not need a Real ID license if you have a valid passport.

Can I renew my license online and get Real ID?

It depends on your state. Some states allow online renewal for certain situations, but most require an in-person visit to the DMV to get Real ID because you have to show original documents. Check your state's DMV website to see whether online renewal includes Real ID.

What if my state ID or license expires after May 7, 2025?

You can still renew it after that date and request the Real ID version. The May 7 important date is when TSA starts enforcing the requirement, not when you have to have it by. If your license expires in June 2025, you can renew it then and get Real ID at that time.

Do children need Real ID to fly?

Children under 18 do not need ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with an adult. The adult traveling with them needs Real ID or an alternative federal ID. Once a child turns 18, they will need their own Real ID or federal ID to fly.