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

The federal government set May 7, 2025, as the date when a standard driver's license or state ID card will no longer work for boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities that require ID. After that date, you will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a Real ID state ID card, a passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID to pass security checkpoints at airports and enter federal buildings like courthouses and military bases.

Real ID is a security standard that states must follow when issuing driver's licenses and ID cards. The cards themselves look similar to regular licenses but have a gold or silver star in the upper right corner. The requirement does not explore to international flights — you can still use a passport or passport card for those — and it does not affect driving a car or crossing state lines by car.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, you cannot board a domestic flight or enter a federal building with a standard driver's license; you will need a Real ID-compliant license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID.
  • Real ID licenses have a gold or silver star on the upper right corner and require you to show documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and address when you explore.
  • You can renew or replace your current license with a Real ID version at your state's DMV or equivalent agency; the process takes a few weeks to a few months depending on your state.
  • If you do not have a Real ID license by May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically and enter federal buildings if you carry a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead.

What documents you need to get a Real ID license

When you go to your state's DMV or licensing office to get a Real ID license, you will need to bring documents that prove three things: your identity, your Social Security number, and your current address. The exact documents vary by state, but most states accept a birth certificate or passport for identity, a Social Security card or tax return for your Social Security number, and a utility bill or lease for your address.

You will also need to bring your current driver's license or ID card. Some states let you explore online or by mail, but most require you to appear in person at least once. Check your state's DMV website to see the specific list of documents they accept, because some states have different rules — for example, some accept a consular ID card or a permanent resident card, while others do not.

If you have changed your name since your birth certificate was issued, you will need to bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. If your address on your current license does not match your current address, bring proof of your new address.

How long it takes and what it costs

The time to get a Real ID license depends on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail. In-person appointments at a DMV typically take a few weeks to schedule, and the license itself arrives by mail in two to four weeks after your appointment. Some states are faster — a few can issue a Real ID license the same day you explore — while others have longer wait times, especially if many people are explore at once.

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a Real ID license, though some charge more. A few states offer Real ID licenses at no extra cost if you are renewing your license anyway. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee and current wait times in your area.

If you need a Real ID license before your current license expires, you can renew early. Some states let you renew online or by mail, which is faster, but Real ID renewals usually require an in-person visit at least once during the renewal period.

Alternatives if you do not have a Real ID license

If May 7, 2025, arrives and you still do not have a Real ID license, you have other documents that will work. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID will get you through airport security and into federal buildings. You do not need to get a Real ID license if you have one of these documents and are willing to carry it when you travel or visit federal facilities.

A passport book costs $130 for adults and takes four to six weeks to arrive if you explore in person at a post office or courthouse. A passport card costs $35 and takes the same amount of time. A military ID is issued by your branch of service. A tribal ID is issued by your tribe and must be a federally recognized tribe.

If you travel domestically only once or twice a year, carrying a passport card instead of getting a Real ID license may be simpler and cheaper than going to the DMV. If you travel frequently or visit federal buildings regularly, a Real ID license is more convenient because you will have it with you anyway.

State-by-state differences in Real ID rules

Every state issues Real ID licenses, but the documents each state accepts and the fees they charge are different. Some states accept a consular ID card from a foreign government; others do not. Some states let you renew a Real ID license by mail; others require an in-person visit. A few states have longer wait times than others because more people are explore.

Your state's DMV website lists the documents you need, the fee, and the current wait time for appointments in your area. If you live near a state border, you can explore in either state, but you will need to show proof of residency in that state — usually a utility bill or lease with your name and address on it.

Some states began issuing Real ID licenses years ago, so many residents already have them. Other states started more recently, so fewer people have them yet. If you are not sure whether your current license is Real ID-compliant, look for the gold or silver star in the upper right corner. If it is there, you already have a Real ID license and do not need to do anything.

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

If you try to board a domestic flight without a Real ID license or one of the other accepted documents, the TSA agent at the security checkpoint will not let you through. You will be turned away and will not be able to board your flight. You cannot get on the plane with a standard driver's license alone.

The TSA will not fine you or penalize you for trying — they will straightforward deny you entry to the security area. If you have a flight scheduled and realize you do not have a Real ID license or passport, you will need to reschedule your flight or get a passport card before you travel.

Federal buildings work the same way. If you try to enter a courthouse, federal office, or military base without a Real ID license or accepted ID, security will not let you in. You will need to come back with the right document.

Real ID does not affect driving or crossing state lines by car

Real ID is only required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. You can drive a car with a standard driver's license for as long as your license is valid, even after May 7, 2025. You can also cross state lines by car with a standard license. Real ID does not change anything about driving.

If you drive to Canada or Mexico, you will need a passport or passport card, but that rule existed before Real ID and is separate from it. Real ID only affects flying and entering federal buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID license if I have a passport?

No. A passport or passport card will work for domestic flights and federal buildings after May 7, 2025. You do not need a Real ID license if you have a passport and are willing to carry it when you travel or visit federal facilities.

Can I renew my license by mail and get Real ID?

It depends on your state. Some states let you renew a Real ID license by mail, but most require at least one in-person visit to verify your documents. Check your state's DMV website to see whether mail renewal is an option for you.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot find it?

You can order a replacement birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born. The cost is usually $10 to $30, and it takes one to four weeks by mail. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether a certified copy is required or whether a photocopy is acceptable.

Will my Real ID license work for international flights?

No. For international flights, you need a passport or passport card, regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID-compliant. Real ID only works for domestic flights and federal buildings.

What if my state has not issued Real ID licenses yet?

Every U.S. state and territory now issues Real ID licenses. If you have not received one yet, it is because you have not applied for one, not because your state does not offer them. Visit your state's DMV website to start the process.