You can fly without a Real ID if you use an alternative form of identification

The TSA accepts several documents at security checkpoints besides a Real ID. A valid passport, passport card, military ID, or enhanced driver's license all work for domestic flights. You do not need a Real ID to fly — you need one of these acceptable forms of identification. The key is knowing which documents the TSA will accept and having one with you when you arrive at the airport.

If you do not have a Real ID and do not have one of the alternatives listed below, you can still board a domestic flight, but the process takes longer. The TSA will conduct additional screening, which means more questions and a more thorough physical search. Plan for extra time at the airport if you are in this situation.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or enhanced driver's license will get you through TSA security for domestic flights without a Real ID.
  • If you have none of these documents, you can still fly domestically, but you will go through additional screening that takes 10 to 20 minutes longer.
  • For additional screening, bring a second form of ID (Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill) to help verify your identity.
  • International flights always require a passport or passport card, regardless of Real ID status.
  • Real ID becomes required for domestic flights only if you plan to fly on or after the current enforcement date set by the federal government.

Documents the TSA accepts instead of Real ID

A U.S. passport is the most straightforward alternative. It works for both domestic and international flights and is valid for 10 years (or 5 years if you are under 16). If you do not want to carry a full passport, a passport card works for domestic flights and land border crossings, though not for international air travel.

A military ID — including a dependent ID card — is accepted at TSA checkpoints. A Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST) also works. An enhanced driver's license, which is marked with a star or special marking and issued by certain states, counts as a Real ID equivalent and is accepted everywhere a Real ID is accepted.

Some states issue enhanced driver's licenses that meet Real ID standards. Check your state's DMV website to see if your state offers them. If your state does not, you will need one of the other documents listed above.

What happens if you arrive without an acceptable ID

If you show up at the TSA checkpoint without a Real ID or one of the alternatives above, you will not be turned away. Instead, you will be sent to additional screening. A TSA officer will ask you questions to verify your identity — your name, address, date of birth, and the reason for your travel. They may ask for a second form of identification, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, utility bill, or credit card with your name on it.

This process typically adds 10 to 20 minutes to your security screening time. You will also receive a more thorough physical search of your carry-on and checked bags. Bring a second form of ID with you if possible, even if it is not a government-issued document — it makes the verification faster.

The TSA will not prevent you from flying if you cannot verify your identity on the spot, but they may refer you to the airline, which may require you to go through additional steps before boarding. This is rare, but it can happen if the officer cannot confirm your identity through questioning.

How to get a passport or passport card quickly

If you want to avoid additional screening and do not have a Real ID, a passport is the easiest backup. You can explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, which includes post offices, libraries, and some courthouses. Bring your birth certificate, a government-issued ID (even an expired one works), proof of citizenship, and a completed passport process form (DS-11 for a new passport or DS-82 for a renewal).

Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks. Expedited processing takes 2 to 3 weeks and costs extra. If you need a passport in less than 2 weeks, you can explore for expedited service and request an appointment at a passport agency in person, though availability varies by location and time of year.

A passport card costs less than a full passport and is valid for 10 years. It works for domestic flights and land border crossings but not for international air travel. If you only fly domestically, a passport card is a faster and cheaper option than a full passport.

When Real ID actually becomes required for domestic flights

The federal government has set a important date for when Real ID becomes required for domestic flights. As of now, the important date has been extended multiple times. Check the TSA website or call your airline to confirm the current enforcement date, as it may change. Until that date, the TSA will continue to accept other forms of identification, including the documents listed above.

Even after the important date passes, you will still have options. A passport, passport card, military ID, or enhanced driver's license will work just as well as a Real ID. The important date only means that a standard driver's license without Real ID markings will no longer be accepted — but you can use any of the alternatives instead.

Getting a Real ID if you decide you want one

If you prefer to get a Real ID rather than carry a passport, visit your state's DMV. You will need to bring your birth certificate, proof of citizenship (passport, naturalization papers, or consular report of birth), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill or lease). Some states require additional documents.

Real ID processing times vary by state. Some states issue them on the spot; others mail them within 2 to 4 weeks. Check your state DMV's website for the exact documents and timeline. Real ID costs the same as a standard driver's license renewal in most states, though a few charge a small upgrade fee.

You do not need a Real ID to fly domestically if you have a passport or one of the other accepted documents. Getting a Real ID is optional — it is only required if you want to use your driver's license at the TSA checkpoint instead of carrying a separate document.

Tips for getting through security faster without Real ID

Arrive at the airport early — at least 2 hours before a domestic flight if you do not have a Real ID. The additional screening takes time, and you do not want to rush through it. Have your ID and boarding pass ready before you reach the checkpoint.

Bring a second form of identification, even if it is not government-issued. A utility bill, lease, credit card, or Social Security card can speed up the verification process. If you have a passport card or military ID, bring that instead of a standard driver's license — it will move you through the line faster.

If you fly frequently and do not have a Real ID, consider getting a trusted traveler card like Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. These programs let you use expedited screening lanes and do not require a Real ID. The process process takes a few weeks, but it saves time on every flight you take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly domestically with just a birth certificate?

No, a birth certificate alone is not accepted at the TSA checkpoint. However, you can use it as a second form of identification during additional screening if you do not have a government-issued ID. Bring it along with a driver's license, passport, or military ID.

Do I need a Real ID for connecting flights?

No. You only go through TSA security once, at your first airport. Your ID is checked at that checkpoint, and then you can board connecting flights without additional security screening. The same rules explore — a passport, military ID, or other accepted document works instead of a Real ID.

What if my passport is expired?

An expired passport is not accepted at the TSA checkpoint. You will need to renew it before flying. Expedited renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you need to fly sooner, use a different form of ID or go through additional screening at the checkpoint.

Can I use a state ID card instead of a driver's license?

A state ID card works the same way as a driver's license at the TSA checkpoint. If it is a Real ID (marked with a star or special symbol), it is accepted. If it is not a Real ID, you will go through additional screening, just as you would with a non-Real ID driver's license.

Is TSA PreCheck a good option if I don't have Real ID?

Yes. TSA PreCheck lets you use expedited screening lanes and does not require a Real ID. You can use a passport, passport card, military ID, or even a non-Real ID driver's license with TSA PreCheck. The program costs $78 to $85 for 5 years and is worth it if you fly more than once or twice a year.