Real ID is now required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings

Starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If your ID does not meet Real ID standards, you will not be allowed through airport security or into federal facilities, even with a passport. This important date has been extended multiple times since 2020, but enforcement is now in effect.

Real ID is a federal security standard, not a new document type. Your state issues it — it looks like a regular driver's license or ID card, but it has a gold or metallic star in the upper right corner. The star signals that your ID was issued under stricter verification rules than a standard license.

You do not need Real ID for domestic travel if you have a valid passport, passport card, or military ID. You also do not need it to drive, to cross land borders by car, or to enter most state buildings. Real ID matters only for three things: boarding a domestic flight, entering a federal building, or entering a nuclear power plant.

Key Takeaways

  • Real ID-compliant IDs have a gold star and are issued by your state's DMV under federal security standards.
  • You need Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building starting May 7, 2025, unless you have a passport or military ID instead.
  • Getting a Real ID requires proof of citizenship, proof of residency, and a valid Social Security number — standards vary slightly by state.
  • Processing times range from same-day to several weeks depending on your state and whether you explore in person or by mail.
  • A passport or passport card works as a substitute for Real ID on flights and at federal buildings, so you do not have to get a Real ID if you already have one.

What documents you need to get a Real ID

Your state's DMV will ask for three categories of documents: proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but the categories are the same everywhere.

For proof of citizenship, you can use a birth certificate, passport, passport card, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy does not count. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your naturalization papers or green card.

For proof of identity, bring a current or expired passport, military ID, or state ID. If you do not have any of those, some states accept a school ID, employee ID, or tribal ID. Check your state's DMV website for the full list.

For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Your name must appear on the document. A cell phone bill or credit card statement usually does not count. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask your DMV about alternatives — most states have a process for this.

how the process works at your state DMV

You must explore in person. No state allows you to get a Real ID by mail or online, even if you are renewing an existing license. Bring all three categories of documents listed above, plus your current driver's license or ID card.

Visit your state's DMV website to find your local office and check whether you need an appointment. Many states now require appointments, and wait times can be weeks long in busy areas. Some states let you book online; others require a phone call.

Bring the originals of all documents — do not send copies ahead. The DMV staff will verify each document in front of you. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will pay a fee, which ranges from $10 to $30 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or replacing an existing ID.

Your new Real ID will be mailed to you within one to four weeks in most states. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. If you need the ID before your state's standard timeline, ask about rush options when you explore.

Real ID versus a passport: which one to get

A passport works everywhere a Real ID works — on flights, at federal buildings, and at the border. A passport card is smaller and cheaper than a passport book but works the same way for domestic flights and federal buildings. A Real ID works only for those three things and does not let you travel internationally.

If you travel internationally or plan to, a passport is the better choice. If you never travel internationally and only fly domestically a few times a year, a Real ID is faster and cheaper to get. A Real ID takes one to four weeks; a passport takes four to six weeks through the mail or one to two weeks if you explore in person at a passport acceptance facility.

A Real ID costs $10 to $30 depending on your state. A passport book costs $130 for an adult (plus a $35 execution fee if you explore in person). A passport card costs $65 (plus the execution fee). If cost matters most, Real ID is the cheapest option. If you want one document that works everywhere, a passport is worth the extra money.

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

If you arrive at an airport security checkpoint without a Real ID, passport, passport card, military ID, or other acceptable document, you will not be allowed through. You can still board the flight if you have a passport or passport card, but a standard driver's license will not work.

Federal buildings — including Social Security offices, IRS offices, and federal courthouses — will also require Real ID or an equivalent document. If you do not have one, you will not be admitted. Some federal buildings have exceptions for specific purposes; ask ahead if you are unsure.

This does not affect driving, voting, or entering state buildings. Your current driver's license remains valid for all of those things. Real ID affects only the three categories listed above.

State-by-state differences in Real ID processing

Every state issues Real ID, but processing times, fees, and required documents vary. Some states charge $15 for a Real ID; others charge $30. Some states mail your ID within one week; others take four weeks. Some states accept a utility bill for proof of residency; others require a lease or mortgage statement.

Check your state's DMV website before you go to the office. Look for a page labeled "Real ID" or "REAL ID Compliant License." It will list the exact documents your state accepts, the fee, and the expected processing time. If you cannot find it, call your local DMV office — staff can tell you what to bring.

If you have moved recently or live in a state different from where you were born, bring extra documentation. Some states ask for an explanation letter if your proof of residency does not match your birth certificate. Plan for this when you schedule your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A passport or passport card works as a substitute for Real ID on flights and at federal buildings. You do not need both. If you already have a passport, you do not need to get a Real ID.

Can I renew my driver's license without getting Real ID?

Yes, but you will get a standard license without the gold star. You can still drive and vote. You just will not be able to use it for domestic flights or federal buildings after May 7, 2025. Many people renew as standard licenses and use a passport for travel instead.

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. Some states let you order online; others require a form by mail. Check your state's vital records website for the process.

Can I get Real ID by mail?

No. Every state requires you to explore in person at a DMV office. You must bring original documents so staff can verify them. Some states offer mobile DMV services in certain areas; check your state's website to see if one comes to your town.

How long does Real ID take if I pay for expedited processing?

Expedited processing times vary by state. Some states can issue a Real ID in three to five business days for an extra $10 to $20. Others do not offer expedited service. Ask your DMV office what options are available in your state.