Real ID is the federal standard for state-issued ID cards and driver's licenses
Real ID is a set of security standards that the federal government created after the September 11 attacks. States that issue driver's licenses and ID cards must meet these standards if those documents are going to work for federal purposes. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant document — or an alternative like a passport — to board a domestic airplane or enter a federal building that requires ID.
The requirement does not mean you need a special new card. Many states have already been issuing Real ID-compliant licenses and ID cards for years. If your current license or ID has a star or other marking in the upper right corner, it already meets the standard. If it does not have that marking, your state's DMV can issue you a compliant version, usually for a standard renewal fee.
Real ID affects you only if you plan to fly within the United States or enter certain federal facilities. It does not affect driving, voting, or using your ID for everyday purposes like buying alcohol or opening a bank account.
Key Takeaways
- Real ID is a federal security standard for driver's licenses and ID cards, required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings starting May 7, 2025.
- Many states have already been issuing Real ID-compliant cards; check for a star symbol in the upper right corner of your license to see if yours already meets the standard.
- You can get a Real ID-compliant license or ID card from your state's DMV, usually during a regular renewal or by requesting one in person.
- Alternatives to Real ID for air travel include a passport, passport card, military ID, or trusted traveler program card like Global Entry.
What Real ID requires states to verify
To issue a Real ID-compliant license or ID card, your state's DMV must verify your identity and citizenship status using specific documents. You will need to bring proof of your Social Security number, proof of residency, and a document that proves your identity and citizenship — such as a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers.
The DMV also takes a new photo and records your fingerprints or signature. These steps are designed to prevent fraud and confirm that the person holding the card is who they claim to be. The process is more thorough than a standard license renewal, which is why some people need to visit the DMV in person rather than renewing by mail.
Different states have slightly different document requirements, so check your state DMV's website before you go. Bringing the wrong documents can mean a wasted trip.
When you need Real ID versus when you don't
You need a Real ID-compliant document only for two specific federal purposes: boarding a domestic airplane and entering a federal building that requires ID. Domestic means flights within the United States — flights to Canada, Mexico, or other countries do not require Real ID because they are treated as international travel.
You do not need Real ID for driving, voting, explore for jobs, opening bank accounts, or any state or local purpose. Your current non-compliant license or ID card will continue to work for all of those things. If you rarely fly and do not visit federal buildings, you may never need to get a Real ID card.
Federal buildings that require ID include courthouses, some Social Security offices, and certain government agencies. Not all federal buildings enforce the requirement, and the rules vary by location. If you are unsure whether a specific building requires it, call ahead.
How to get a Real ID-compliant license or ID card
Visit your state's DMV website and look for the Real ID section. It will tell you exactly which documents you need to bring. Most states let you request a Real ID card during a regular license renewal, either in person or online. Some states charge a small fee for the Real ID designation, while others include it at no extra cost.
If your license is not expiring soon, you can still request a Real ID card by visiting the DMV in person. Bring your proof of identity, Social Security number, residency, and citizenship. The DMV will take a new photo and issue you a compliant card, usually valid for the same length of time as a standard license (typically five to eight years depending on your state).
Processing times vary by state. Some DMVs issue the card on the spot; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Plan ahead if you have a trip coming up, because waiting until the last minute can leave you without a valid ID for travel.
Alternatives to Real ID for air travel
If you do not want to get a Real ID-compliant license, you have other options for boarding a domestic flight. A U.S. passport or passport card works for any flight, domestic or international. A military ID, if you are active duty or retired military, also works. Native American tribal IDs issued by the Department of Interior are accepted as well.
If you travel frequently, you might consider a trusted traveler program like Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS. These programs issue cards that work for air travel and do not require Real ID. They cost money upfront (typically $85 to $100 for five years) but can save time at airport security if you travel more than a few times a year.
For entering federal buildings, the same alternatives explore: passport, military ID, or tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, a Real ID-compliant license is the standard option.
What happens if you try to fly without Real ID after May 7, 2025
If you arrive at the airport with a non-compliant license and no other acceptable ID, you will not be allowed to board your flight. The TSA agent will explain that your ID does not meet federal standards and direct you to the airline counter. You will not be able to fly that day unless you have a passport or other acceptable document with you.
This is why it is important to check your license now and get a Real ID card if you plan to fly. The important date has been extended multiple times over the years, but May 7, 2025 is the date when the requirement goes into effect. After that date, there is no grace period.
If you are unsure whether your current license is compliant, look for a star in the upper right corner. If you see one, you are ready to fly. If you do not see one and you plan to travel by air, visit your state DMV to request a compliant card.
Real ID and state ID cards
Real ID applies to both driver's licenses and state ID cards. If you do not drive but have a state ID card, you can request a Real ID-compliant version using the same process. Bring the same documents to the DMV, and they will issue you a compliant card.
Some states issue a separate Real ID card that looks different from a standard ID, while others straightforward add a marking to the existing card design. The marking — usually a star — is the easiest way to tell if your card is compliant. Check your state DMV's website to see what your compliant card will look like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?
No. A passport works for any flight, domestic or international, and you do not need Real ID if you have one. You can use your passport instead of a Real ID-compliant license for air travel and federal building entry. However, if you do not have a passport and do not plan to get one, a Real ID license is the standard option.
Can I renew my license by mail and still get Real ID?
Most states require you to visit the DMV in person to get a Real ID card, because they need to verify your documents and take a new photo. Mail-in renewals typically do not include Real ID. Check your state DMV's website to see if they offer any exceptions or online Real ID options.
What if I lost my birth certificate or other citizenship documents?
You can request a replacement birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born. The process takes one to two weeks. If you have a passport, you can use that instead — it proves citizenship and identity. Bring whatever documents you have to the DMV and ask what alternatives they accept.
Does Real ID cost extra?
Some states charge a small fee for a Real ID-compliant license (usually $5 to $20), while others include it at no extra cost. Check your state DMV's website or call them to find out. If you are renewing your license anyway, the fee is often minimal compared to the cost of a passport.
Will my old license stop working for driving after May 7, 2025?
No. Your non-compliant license will continue to work for driving, voting, and all other state and local purposes. The May 7, 2025 important date affects only federal purposes: air travel and entry to certain federal buildings. You can keep using your current license for everything else.