Real ID becomes required for domestic flights on May 7, 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all passengers on domestic flights to show either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or another acceptable form of identification. If you show up with a standard driver's license that does not meet Real ID standards, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint, even if you have a valid ticket.

This important date has been extended multiple times since the original 2020 requirement date. The current May 2025 important date is the one now in effect, though Congress has extended it before and could do so again. For planning purposes, assume the requirement will take effect as scheduled unless you see a formal announcement from TSA or Congress.

Real ID is a federal security standard that states must meet when issuing driver's licenses and ID cards. A Real ID-compliant card has a small star in the upper right corner. If your license does not have that star, you will need to either get a Real ID card or bring an alternative form of ID to the airport.

Key Takeaways

  • Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will require a Real ID card or other acceptable ID for all domestic flights; a standard driver's license without the star will not work.
  • You can identify a Real ID card by the small star in the upper right corner; if your license does not have it, you need to renew it or bring different ID.
  • Getting a Real ID card requires visiting your state's DMV in person with documents like a birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security number.
  • If you cannot get a Real ID card, you can still fly with a passport, passport card, military ID, or other TSA-approved documents.
  • International flights already require a passport and are not affected by the Real ID important date.

What counts as acceptable ID at the airport starting May 2025

A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card is the easiest option, but it is not the only one. TSA accepts several other forms of identification for domestic flights, and these do not change on May 7, 2025.

Acceptable documents include a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, permanent resident card (green card), and enhanced driver's licenses issued by certain states. If you already have any of these, you do not need to get a Real ID card. You can use what you have now.

A standard driver's license without the Real ID star will no longer work for domestic flights after May 7, 2025. If that is your only form of ID, you will need to either renew it as a Real ID card or bring one of the other acceptable documents to the airport.

How to get a Real ID card at your state DMV

Every state's DMV issues Real ID cards, but the process and cost vary by state. You must explore in person — you cannot renew a Real ID card by mail or online, even if you have renewed your standard license that way before.

Bring these documents to your DMV visit: an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease), your Social Security number, and proof of your legal name if it has changed. Some states require additional documents. Check your state's DMV website before you go to confirm what you need.

The cost ranges from free to about $30 depending on your state, and processing time varies. Some states issue the card on the spot; others mail it to you within one to three weeks. Plan your visit well before May 7, 2025, because DMV offices often have long wait times as the important date approaches.

When the important date might change again

Congress has extended the Real ID important date five times since 2020. It is possible the important date could be extended again, though TSA and the Department of Homeland Security have said they intend to enforce it on May 7, 2025.

If you see an official announcement from TSA or Congress that the important date has moved, that will be the source to trust. News articles and social media posts about extensions should be verified against the TSA website or a direct statement from Congress before you change your plans.

For now, the safest approach is to assume the May 7, 2025 date is firm and get your Real ID card or confirm you have another acceptable form of ID before then. If the important date is extended, you will have already solved the problem.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at the airport on or after May 7, 2025 with only a standard driver's license, TSA will not allow you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight, and you will lose your ticket.

TSA may allow you to leave the checkpoint, get acceptable ID, and return the same day if you have time. Some airports have Real ID mobile units or partnerships with local DMVs that can issue emergency IDs, but this is not available everywhere and is not may provide. Do not count on this as a backup plan.

The best approach is to check your driver's license now for the Real ID star. If it is not there, either renew it as a Real ID card or confirm you have a passport or other acceptable document before your next flight.

Real ID does not affect international travel

If you fly internationally, you already need a valid U.S. passport. Real ID does not change this requirement. International flights are not affected by the May 7, 2025 important date.

For domestic flights, Real ID is the new standard. For international flights, a passport remains the requirement, just as it has been.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A valid passport works for domestic flights and is already acceptable to TSA. You do not need to get a Real ID card if you have a passport. You can use your passport at the airport instead.

Can I renew my Real ID card by mail?

No. Real ID cards must be renewed in person at your state's DMV. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your state allows mail renewal for standard driver's licenses. You will need to visit the DMV with the required documents.

What if I lost my birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. Check your state's vital records website for the exact process and fee. Some DMVs can tell you which documents they will accept as proof of identity if you cannot get a birth certificate.

Will the Real ID important date be extended again?

Congress has extended it five times since 2020, so it is possible. However, TSA has stated it intends to enforce the requirement on May 7, 2025. Do not wait for an extension. Get your Real ID card or confirm you have another acceptable form of ID before that date.

Can I use a Real ID card for anything other than flying?

Yes. A Real ID card meets federal requirements for entering federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear power plants. It is also accepted as a standard form of identification for everyday purposes, just like a regular driver's license.