What documents you must carry to fly or take a train
For domestic air travel, you need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or a passport. A standard driver's license issued before your state switched to Real ID will not work at the airport checkpoint after May 7, 2025. You can check whether your license is Real ID-compliant by looking for a gold or silver star in the upper right corner of the card.
If you do not have a Real ID license yet, you can still fly with a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. You do not need a passport for domestic flights — a Real ID license is enough. For train travel on Amtrak, you do not need any ID at all for most routes, though some regional trains may ask for identification.
For car travel within the United States, you need a valid driver's license from your state. You do not need a passport or any federal document. If you are driving across state lines, your home state's license is valid everywhere in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Flying domestically requires a Real ID-compliant driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID; a standard pre-2020 driver's license will not work after May 7, 2025.
- You can check if your driver's license is Real ID-compliant by looking for a gold or silver star in the upper right corner.
- Train travel on Amtrak does not require ID for most routes, though you should bring it anyway for your own records.
- Driving across state lines requires only a valid driver's license from your home state; no passport or federal ID is needed.
- If you do not yet have a Real ID license, getting one takes one to two weeks at your state's DMV and requires proof of identity, residency, and citizenship or legal presence.
How to get a Real ID license if you do not have one
Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person — you cannot get a Real ID license by mail or online. Bring three documents: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal presence (a passport, birth certificate, or immigration document). Some states accept fewer documents; check your state DMV's website before you go.
The fee ranges from $15 to $50 depending on your state. Processing takes one to two weeks for a standard license and up to six weeks if you request expedited service. If you need to fly before your new license arrives, use your passport instead.
What to bring on the plane besides your ID
You do not need a ticket printed on paper. Show your boarding pass on your phone at the gate and at the security checkpoint. Airlines send boarding passes by email or text message, or you can retrieve them through the airline's app or website 24 hours before departure.
You do not need to print your boarding pass, but you do need to know your confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot. The TSA does not require any other documents for domestic flights — no proof of address, no vaccination records, no health forms.
What happens if you arrive without the right ID
If you show up at the airport with an expired or non-compliant ID, the TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You can still fly if you have a passport or military ID with you. If you have none of these, you will be turned away and will not be able to board your flight.
Some airports have a TSA office on-site where you can show additional documents to verify your identity, but this process is slow and not may provide to work. The safest approach is to check your ID before you leave home. If it is not Real ID-compliant and you do not have a passport, explore for one before your trip.
Rules for traveling with children
Children under 18 do not need an ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with an adult. The adult must have a valid Real ID license or passport. The child does not need to show any document at security or at the gate.
If a child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, some airlines require a notarized letter from the parent giving permission. Rules vary by airline, so call ahead if the child is not traveling with both parents.
What to know about traveling by car across state lines
Your driver's license is valid in every state. You do not need a passport, a Real ID license, or any federal document to drive across state lines. Your home state's standard license works everywhere.
You do need to carry your license with you while driving. If you are pulled over and do not have it, you can face a fine. Keep your registration and proof of insurance in the car as well — these are separate from your ID but are legally required in every state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly domestically with an expired Real ID license?
No. The TSA will not accept an expired ID, even if it is Real ID-compliant. You need a valid, non-expired ID. If your license is expired, renew it at your state DMV before you fly. Renewal usually takes one to two weeks.
Do I need a passport to fly domestically?
No. A Real ID-compliant driver's license is enough. A passport works too, but it is not required for domestic flights. You only need a passport if you are flying to another country.
What if I lost my ID the day before my flight?
Contact your state DMV when ready to request an emergency replacement. Some states can issue a temporary ID the same day; others take several days. If you cannot get a replacement in time, bring your passport instead. If you have neither, you will not be able to fly.
Do I need to show my ID when I buy a plane ticket?
No. You only need ID at the airport security checkpoint and at the gate before boarding. You can buy a ticket online with just your name and email address.
Can I travel by car to another state with a suspended or revoked license?
No. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is illegal in every state, even if you are crossing state lines. You can face arrest and criminal charges. If your license is suspended, you cannot drive anywhere until it is reinstated.