The documents you need for domestic air travel

For domestic flights within the United States, you need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or passport. A standard driver's license without Real ID compliance will not work at airport security checkpoints as of May 7, 2025. Real ID licenses have a gold or silver star in the upper right corner.

If your state-issued ID does not have that star, bring your passport instead — a U.S. passport book or passport card both work. Military ID, tribal ID, or a permanent resident card (green card) are also accepted at TSA checkpoints. You do not need a passport for domestic flights; a Real ID license is enough.

The TSA PreCheck program lets you move through security faster, but it is optional and costs money. Standard security screening works fine for domestic travel and requires only your ID and boarding pass.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star) or a U.S. passport is required at airport security for all domestic flights.
  • Standard driver's licenses without Real ID compliance stopped being accepted at federal checkpoints in May 2025.
  • You can check whether your state's ID is Real ID-compliant by looking for a star symbol or visiting your state's DMV website.
  • Minors under 18 do not need ID if traveling with a parent or guardian, but the adult must have valid ID.
  • Rental cars, hotels, and other services may ask for ID, so bring your license even if you are flying with a passport.

How to check if your driver's license is Real ID-compliant

Look at your driver's license. If there is a gold or silver star in the upper right corner, it is Real ID-compliant and you can use it at airport security. If there is no star, your license does not meet the requirement.

You can also visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and search for "Real ID" to see which documents your state accepts and how to upgrade your license. The process varies by state — some allow you to renew online, while others require an in-person visit. There is usually a fee, typically between $10 and $30, though some states waive it for renewals.

What to bring if you do not have a Real ID license yet

If your license does not have the Real ID star and you cannot get one before your trip, bring your U.S. passport instead. A passport book (the blue booklet) or passport card (the wallet-sized version) both work at TSA checkpoints. You do not need both — either one is sufficient.

If you do not have a passport, you can explore at your local passport acceptance facility, which is often a post office, courthouse, or library. Processing times vary: routine service takes several weeks, and expedited service (available for an extra fee) takes one to two weeks. If your trip is very soon, check whether your state offers expedited Real ID renewal at the DMV instead, which is usually faster.

What minors need to travel domestically

Children under 18 do not need their own ID if they are traveling with a parent or guardian. The adult traveling with them must have valid ID (Real ID license or passport). The TSA will ask to see the adult's ID and may ask the child's name to verify the relationship.

If a minor is traveling alone or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian, that adult should carry a notarized letter from the parent giving permission. Airlines may ask for this, and it protects the child if questions arise. The minor still does not need their own ID for the flight itself.

Documents you need for rental cars and hotels

Rental car companies and hotels will ask for a photo ID, and they typically want a driver's license specifically — not a passport. Bring your driver's license even if you are flying with a passport. You will also need a credit card in your name to rent a car or check into most hotels.

Some rental companies have age restrictions (usually 21 or 25 for the youngest drivers) and may charge extra fees for drivers under 25. Call ahead if you are concerned about age requirements. Hotels generally do not have age restrictions for checking in, but they may ask for a credit card to hold the room.

What happens if you forget your ID at the airport

If you arrive at the airport without ID, tell the TSA officer when ready. You will go through additional screening, which takes longer but is possible. The TSA will ask you questions to verify your identity — your name, address, date of birth, and details about your flight. They may also ask for a credit card or other document with your name on it.

This process can add 15 to 30 minutes to your security wait. If you cannot verify your identity to the TSA's satisfaction, you will not be allowed through security. It is much easier to go home and get your ID if you live close to the airport, or to have someone bring it to you.

State-by-state Real ID status and important date

All 50 states now issue Real ID-compliant licenses, though the rollout happened at different times. As of May 7, 2025, only Real ID-compliant licenses work at federal checkpoints — standard licenses do not. Every state's DMV website lists which documents they accept and how to upgrade.

If you are unsure whether your license is compliant, the fastest way to check is to look for the star. If you do not see one, visit your state's DMV website or call your local DMV office. They can tell you whether your license qualifies and what you need to do to upgrade it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport card instead of my passport book for domestic flights?

Yes. The passport card is a valid form of ID at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. It is smaller and easier to carry than the passport book, though both work equally well. You cannot use it for international travel by air, but for domestic flights it is fine.

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

No. You can use your passport at airport security instead. However, you will still need a driver's license for renting a car or checking into a hotel, so most people get a Real ID license anyway for convenience.

What if I lost my ID and my flight is in two days?

Contact your state's DMV when ready to see if they offer expedited replacement. Some states can issue a temporary ID or expedited license within days. If that is not possible, bring your passport if you have one. If you have neither, you can still fly but will go through extended TSA screening — call the airport ahead of time to ask how much extra time to allow.

Can I use an expired Real ID license at the airport?

No. Your ID must be current and valid. An expired license will not work at TSA checkpoints. If your license is expiring soon, renew it before your trip.

Do I need a vaccine card or health documents for domestic flights?

No. The United States does not require vaccine cards or health documents for domestic air travel. You may need them for certain activities at your destination — some venues or events have their own rules — but the airline and TSA do not ask for them.