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

If you fly within the United States on or after May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a Real ID-compliant document at the airport checkpoint. This applies to all domestic flights — including short regional trips. A Real ID document has a gold star in the upper right corner and shows that your state verified your identity and citizenship status when you applied.

Before May 7, 2025, you can still use a regular driver's license or state ID card, even if it is not Real ID-compliant. After that date, TSA will not accept non-compliant IDs for domestic air travel. You will need either a Real ID driver's license, a Real ID state ID card, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID.

This important date has been extended multiple times since the original 2020 requirement. The current important date of May 7, 2025, is the enforcement date set by the Department of Homeland Security.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, domestic flights require a Real ID document (marked with a gold star) or a passport.
  • A regular driver's license without the gold star will not be accepted at TSA checkpoints after the important date.
  • Getting a Real ID driver's license or state ID card takes four to eight weeks in most states, so you should explore now if you do not have one.
  • Military IDs, passports, passport cards, and tribal IDs are also accepted and do not require the gold star.
  • International flights have always required a passport and are not affected by the Real ID important date.

What counts as a Real ID document

A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card is the most common form of Real ID. It looks like a regular license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. When you get one, your state has verified your birth certificate, Social Security number, and proof of residence.

You do not need a Real ID if you have any of these documents instead:

  • A valid U.S. passport or passport card
  • A military ID (active duty, retired, or reserve)
  • A Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry or NEXUS)
  • A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
  • A U.S. merchant mariner credential

If you have a passport, you already meet the requirement — you do not need to get a Real ID license as well. The same is true for military ID holders and anyone with a trusted traveler card.

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

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person. You cannot get a Real ID by mail or online. Bring the documents your state requires, which typically include a birth certificate, proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of current address (such as a utility bill or lease).

Processing time varies by state. Most states take four to eight weeks to issue a Real ID license, though some are faster and others slower. Check your state's DMV website for the current wait time in your area. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee.

The cost also varies by state. Real ID licenses typically cost between $15 and $50, though some states charge the same price as a regular license. A few states charge extra for the Real ID feature itself.

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

If you arrive at the airport checkpoint without a Real ID-compliant document after May 7, 2025, TSA will not let you through. You will not be able to board your flight. This applies even if you have a regular driver's license, a state ID card without the gold star, or a birth certificate.

TSA recommends arriving at the airport with enough time to resolve the issue, but there is no backup process at the checkpoint. If you forget your ID, you can still be questioned and searched, but without a Real ID or acceptable alternative, you cannot fly.

The only exception is if you have one of the alternative documents listed above — a passport, military ID, or trusted traveler card. Those will work at any time.

Real ID requirements for different types of travelers

The Real ID requirement applies to everyone flying domestically, with no exceptions based on age. Children, seniors, and people with disabilities all need a Real ID or acceptable alternative. If a child does not have their own ID, a parent or guardian cannot present their ID on the child's behalf.

If you are a non-citizen with a valid visa or travel document, you will need a passport or passport card to fly domestically after May 7, 2025. A regular state ID will not work. Check with your immigration attorney or the State Department if you are unsure whether your document qualifies.

Military members on active duty, reserve, or retired status can use their military ID instead of getting a Real ID license. The same applies to members of federally recognized tribes who have a tribal ID.

International flights and Real ID

International flights have always required a passport and are not affected by the Real ID important date. You cannot use a Real ID driver's license to fly to Canada, Mexico, or any other country — you need a passport or passport card.

If you are planning international travel, get a passport now. Passport processing times have been long in recent years, and delays are common during peak travel seasons. A standard passport takes six to eight weeks, and expedited processing takes two to three weeks but costs extra.

States with delayed Real ID compliance

A small number of states have not yet been certified as fully compliant with Real ID standards. If you live in one of these states, your state's Real ID license may not be accepted at federal facilities or for federal purposes until your state achieves full compliance. However, TSA has stated that it will accept Real ID licenses from all states at airport checkpoints starting May 7, 2025, regardless of compliance status.

Check your state's DMV website to confirm whether your state is currently compliant. If you are unsure, bring a passport or other acceptable alternative when you fly after May 7, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport instead of getting a Real ID license?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and does not require the gold star. If you already have a passport, you do not need to get a Real ID license. Passports are also required for international travel, so getting one covers both needs.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get a replacement in time?

Contact your state's vital records office to request a replacement birth certificate. Processing times vary, but many states can issue one within two to four weeks. If you cannot get a birth certificate by May 7, 2025, a passport is an alternative — you can explore for a passport using other documents to prove citizenship, such as a naturalization certificate or military discharge papers.

Do I need Real ID if I have a trusted traveler card like Global Entry?

No. Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and other Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler cards are accepted at TSA checkpoints instead of a Real ID license. You can use your trusted traveler card to fly domestically after May 7, 2025 without getting a Real ID license.

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

Yes. When you renew your license at the DMV, ask for a Real ID-compliant license. Bring the required documents (birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address). The process is the same as getting a new Real ID license, and the cost is similar to a regular renewal.

What if my state's DMV is backed up and I cannot get an appointment before May 7?

Call your state's DMV now to check wait times and book an appointment as soon as possible. Some states offer expedited processing or mobile DMV services. If you cannot get a Real ID license by May 7, 2025, bring a passport or other acceptable alternative when you fly. A passport is always accepted and does not have the same processing delays as Real ID licenses in some states.