What ID You Need to Fly Within the United States

A standard driver's license works for domestic flights, but only if it meets federal Real ID standards

You can board a domestic flight with a regular state driver's license, but the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has required that license to meet Real ID Act standards since May 7, 2025. If your license does not comply, TSA will not accept it as your sole form of identification at the airport checkpoint, even for flights within the United States.

A Real ID-compliant driver's license has a star or other marking (usually in the upper right corner) that signals it meets federal security standards. Every state now issues Real ID licenses, though some still issue non-compliant licenses too. You need to know which one you hold and whether you need to upgrade before you fly.

If your current license is not Real ID-compliant, you have two paths: get a compliant license from your state DMV, or bring an alternative form of federal ID to the airport instead. Neither path is automatic, and both require you to act before your trip.

Key Takeaways

A Real ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star or state-specific indicator) is the simplest way to pass TSA screening for domestic flights.
If your license lacks the Real ID marking, you must bring a passport, military ID, or other federal ID to the airport instead.
Getting a Real ID license requires an in-person visit to your state DMV with specific documents — usually a birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security verification.
Processing times for Real ID licenses vary by state but often take two to four weeks, so plan ahead if you need one before a trip.
International flights always require a passport, regardless of whether your driver's license is Real ID-compliant.

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

Look at the upper right corner of your license. Most states place a gold or black star there to mark Real ID compliance. Some states use a different symbol — California uses a gold bear, for example — so check your state DMV's website if you are unsure what to look for. If your license has no star or special marking, it is not Real ID-compliant.

You can also call your state DMV or check their website to confirm. Many state DMV sites have a tool where you enter your license number and it tells you whether that license meets Real ID standards. This is faster than looking at the card itself if you are not sure what marking to look for.

If your license is not compliant, you have until your next renewal to upgrade it — but if you fly before then, you must bring an alternative federal ID. Do not assume you can renew early; some states charge a fee for early renewal, and others do not allow it.

Getting a Real ID-compliant driver's license

You must visit your state DMV in person. You cannot renew a Real ID license by mail or online, even if your current license is not expiring soon. Bring these documents:

Proof of identity: a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers
Proof of Social Security number: your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return
Proof of residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days, with your name and current address
Your current driver's license

Some states require additional documents — for example, proof of legal presence if you are not a U.S. citizen. Check your state DMV's Real ID checklist before you go; showing up without the right papers means a wasted trip.

Processing times vary widely. Some states issue Real ID licenses on the spot; others mail them within two to four weeks. If you need the license before a trip, ask the DMV whether they can issue it when ready or whether you should plan for mail delivery time. A few states offer expedited processing for an extra fee.

Alternative federal IDs you can use instead of upgrading your license

If your driver's license is not Real ID-compliant and you do not have time to get one before your flight, TSA will accept these documents at the checkpoint:

A valid U.S. passport or passport card
A military ID (active duty, reserve, or retired)
A Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST)
A state ID card that is Real ID-compliant (if your state issues both driver's licenses and ID cards)
A permanent resident card (green card)
A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
A U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner credential

A passport is the most common backup. If you already have one, you do not need to upgrade your driver's license before flying domestically. Just bring the passport to the airport instead of your license.

If you do not have any of these documents and your license is not compliant, you will not pass TSA screening. Plan ahead: getting a passport takes four to six weeks through the State Department, and a Real ID license takes two to four weeks through your state DMV.

Real ID requirements for international flights

A Real ID-compliant driver's license does not work for international flights. You must have a valid passport, regardless of whether your license meets federal standards. Some countries also require a visa, which you must obtain separately from your passport.

If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you may be able to use a passport card instead of a full passport book. A passport card is smaller and cheaper but works only for land and sea travel, not air travel, so confirm with your airline before you book.

Start your passport process at least four to six weeks before an international trip. If you already have a passport, check its expiration date; many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

What happens if you show up at the airport without acceptable ID

TSA will not let you through the checkpoint if you cannot show a Real ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative. You will not be able to board your flight. TSA may offer a secondary verification process in some cases — for example, asking security questions about your identity — but this is not may provide and takes extra time.

If you miss your flight because of ID issues, the airline will not refund your ticket. You will have to rebook and pay any difference in fare. This is why checking your license before you leave for the airport matters.

If you are traveling with children, they do not need their own ID for domestic flights if they are under 18 and traveling with an adult. The adult must show acceptable ID. Children 18 and older need their own ID.

State-by-state Real ID timelines and fees

Every state now issues Real ID licenses, but the process and cost differ. Some states charge no extra fee for a Real ID license; others charge $5 to $25 on top of the standard license renewal fee. Some states issue them when ready; others mail them within weeks.

Check your state DMV's website for the exact fee, processing time, and required documents. Do not assume your state works the same way as a neighboring state. A few states have specific rules — for example, some require an appointment, while others accept walk-ins. Knowing this before you go saves time.

If you are renewing your license anyway, ask whether upgrading to Real ID costs extra or is automatic. In some states, all new licenses are Real ID by default. In others, you have to request it specifically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired Real ID license if I have a valid passport?

No. Your ID must be valid — not expired — to pass TSA screening. An expired license, even if it was Real ID-compliant when it was valid, will not work. Bring your passport instead if your license has expired.

Do I need a Real ID license if I only fly once every few years?

Not necessarily. You can use a passport or other federal ID instead. But if you fly more than once or twice a year, getting a Real ID license is often simpler than carrying your passport every time. A passport is also required for international flights, so having one is useful either way.

What if my state driver's license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot use it for any purpose, including flying. You will need to bring a passport or other federal ID to the airport. If your license is suspended, you should also not be driving.

Can I get a Real ID license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you are a permanent resident or have a valid visa. You will need to show proof of legal presence — usually your green card or visa — along with the other required documents. Check your state DMV's requirements for non-citizens before you visit.

How long does a Real ID license last?

Most states issue Real ID licenses that are valid for the same length of time as a regular license — usually four to eight years depending on your age and state. When it expires, you will need to renew it in person again if you want to keep it Real ID-compliant.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.