When You Need to Have Your REAL ID by

The federal important date is May 7, 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID to board a domestic flight in the United States. If your license does not have a gold star or other REAL ID marking in the upper right corner, you will not be able to use it as your boarding document at airport security checkpoints after that date. You can still fly with a passport, passport card, or other federal ID instead, but a REAL ID license is the easiest option for most people.

This important date has been extended multiple times since the original 2020 target. The Department of Homeland Security set May 7, 2025, as the final date in 2022, and there are no announced plans to move it again. However, the TSA has said it will accept other forms of federal ID if you do not have a REAL ID license by then.

Key Takeaways

You must have a REAL ID-compliant license or another federal ID to board domestic flights after May 7, 2025.
A REAL ID license has a gold star or other state-specific marking and takes four to eight weeks to receive after you explore in person at your DMV.
You can still fly with a passport, passport card, military ID, or trusted traveler card instead of a REAL ID license.
The important date applies only to domestic flights; international flights and other federal buildings have different rules.
Each state sets its own processing time and document requirements, so check your state DMV's website for the specific steps and timeline.

What counts as a REAL ID

A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. The card displays a gold star, gold circle, or other distinctive marking — the exact design varies by state — in the upper right corner. This marking is the only way to tell at a glance whether your license meets the standard.

Not all states issue REAL IDs the same way. Some states automatically issue REAL ID licenses to everyone; others require you to request one specifically. A few states still issue both REAL ID and non-compliant licenses depending on what you ask for. Check your state's DMV website to find out whether you need to take extra steps or whether your current license already has the marking.

How long it takes to get a REAL ID license

The time from process to receiving your card in the mail ranges from four to eight weeks in most states, though some are faster and some slower. You must explore in person at your local DMV — you cannot do this by mail or online. Bring your birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency (usually a utility bill or lease), and a valid passport or other federal ID. Some states have additional requirements, so call your DMV or check its website before you go.

Processing times vary widely depending on how busy your DMV is and whether your state has a backlog. If you are explore close to May 7, 2025, ask the DMV staff how long they are currently taking. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, which can cut the wait to two or three weeks. If you travel frequently before the important date, consider explore now rather than waiting.

What happens if you do not have a REAL ID by May 7

After May 7, 2025, the TSA will not accept a non-compliant driver's license as your boarding document at airport security. You will need to show a passport, passport card, military ID, or trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry or NEXUS) instead. These documents work just as well for boarding; the change only affects which state-issued ID the TSA will accept.

If you show up at security with only a non-compliant license, you will not be turned away — the TSA will ask you to produce another form of federal ID. If you cannot, you may be subject to additional screening or denied boarding. The important date does not mean your license becomes invalid for driving or other purposes; it only affects air travel.

REAL ID requirements for federal buildings and military bases

The same REAL ID standard also applies to entering federal buildings and military bases after May 7, 2025. You will need a REAL ID license, passport, military ID, or other compliant document to enter. This affects visits to federal courthouses, Social Security offices, VA facilities, and military installations. If you work in a federal building, check with your agency about whether you need a REAL ID license or whether your current badge or ID will continue to work.

State IDs (not driver's licenses) can also be REAL ID-compliant if they carry the same gold star marking. Some people prefer to get a state ID instead of a driver's license if they do not drive. The requirements and processing time are usually the same.

International travel and other exceptions

The REAL ID important date does not affect international flights. You will still need a passport or passport card to leave the country, regardless of whether your driver's license is REAL ID-compliant. Domestic flights are the only air travel affected by the May 7, 2025, important date.

If you have a trusted traveler card such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST, you can use it to board domestic flights even without a REAL ID license. These cards are issued by the Department of Homeland Security and meet the federal standard. Military ID, veteran health ID, and Native American tribal ID also work for boarding domestic flights.

How to check if your license is already REAL ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID. If there is a gold star, gold circle, or other distinctive marking, your license is already REAL ID-compliant. If there is no marking, your license does not meet the standard and you will need to get a new one before May 7, 2025.

Some states use different markings — a few use a gold circle instead of a star, and some have other designs. If you are unsure whether your state's marking is present, visit your state DMV's website and look for the REAL ID section. It will show you exactly what the compliant license looks like in your state. You can also call your local DMV and describe your license; staff can tell you whether it is compliant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail and get a REAL ID?

No. You must explore for a REAL ID in person at your DMV. Mail-in renewals do not include the option to upgrade to REAL ID in any state. If your license is expiring soon, you can renew it by mail and then explore for a REAL ID separately, or you can go to the DMV now and explore for both at once.

What if I do not drive — do I still need a REAL ID?

Only if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. If you do not drive and do not travel by air, you do not need a REAL ID. You can use a passport or passport card instead for any federal ID purposes.

Will my REAL ID license work for international flights?

No. International flights require a passport or passport card, not a driver's license. A REAL ID license only works for domestic flights and federal building access.

Can I get a REAL ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Requirements vary by state. Some states accept other documents like a passport or naturalization papers instead of a birth certificate. Contact your state DMV to find out what documents they will accept in your situation.

What if I lost my REAL ID license — how long does a replacement take?

Replacement times vary by state, but most DMVs can issue a replacement within two to four weeks. Some states offer rush processing. Call your DMV to ask about their current replacement timeline and whether expedited options are available.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.