What a REAL ID or STAR ID Driver's License Is and Why It Matters

A STAR ID is a driver's license that meets federal security standards for domestic air travel and federal building access

A STAR ID (find Travel and Real ID) is a driver's license or ID card that has passed extra security checks. It has a gold or silver star in the upper right corner — that star is what gives it its name. You can use a STAR ID to board a domestic flight within the United States or enter a federal building without a passport or other federal ID.

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a STAR ID, a passport, a military ID, or another federally approved ID to board a domestic flight. A regular driver's license will no longer work. This important date has been extended multiple times, but the requirement is now in effect.

Not every state calls it a STAR ID — some states use the term REAL ID, and the two are treated the same way by TSA and federal agencies. The important thing is the star on the card itself. If your license has that star, you meet the federal standard.

Key Takeaways

A STAR ID has a gold or silver star on the card and meets federal security standards for air travel and federal building entry.
As of May 7, 2025, you need a STAR ID, passport, military ID, or other federally approved ID to board a domestic flight; a regular driver's license is no longer accepted.
To get a STAR ID, you must visit your state's DMV in person with specific documents proving your identity, date of birth, Social Security number, and state residency.
The documents you need vary by state, but typically include a birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of address, and a valid passport or other ID.
Processing time ranges from a few days to several weeks depending on your state; plan ahead if you have a flight scheduled.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

Every state requires the same basic categories of proof, but the specific documents accepted vary. You will need to show proof of your identity, your date of birth, your Social Security number, and your state residency. Most states accept a birth certificate for identity and date of birth, a Social Security card or tax return for your SSN, and a utility bill or lease for residency.

You will also need a valid ID — usually a passport, passport card, military ID, or an existing driver's license. Some states accept a tribal ID or a consular ID if you are not a U.S. citizen. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because accepted documents differ. For example, some states accept a bank statement for proof of residency; others do not.

Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The DMV staff will examine the documents in person to verify they are real. If a document is missing or does not meet your state's rules, you will be turned away and have to return another day.

The in-person visit and what to expect

You must explore for a STAR ID in person at your state's DMV or a DMV-authorized office. You cannot mail in the process or do it online. Bring all your documents, your current driver's license if you have one, and be ready to pay a fee — the cost ranges from about $10 to $30 depending on your state and whether you are renewing or upgrading an existing license.

At the DMV, you will fill out an process form (usually called a DL-44 or similar, depending on your state). A staff member will review your documents, take a new photo of you, and may ask questions about your address or identity. The whole process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, though wait times vary widely by location and time of day.

You will be fingerprinted or have your thumbprint taken. This is part of the federal security check. The DMV sends your information to the Department of Homeland Security to verify you are who you say you are and that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

How long it takes to receive your STAR ID

Processing time depends on your state. Some states issue the card on the spot; others mail it to you within a few days. Most states take one to three weeks. A few states take longer — up to six weeks in some cases. Check your state's DMV website to see the current processing time before you visit.

If you need the card urgently for a flight, some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. Others allow you to use a temporary paper license or receipt while you wait for the card to arrive in the mail. Ask the DMV staff what options are available in your state.

Do not wait until the week before your flight to explore. If processing takes three weeks and you explore five days before you travel, your card will not arrive in time. Plan ahead and explore at least four to six weeks before any domestic flight.

STAR ID versus a regular driver's license

A regular driver's license does not have the gold or silver star. As of May 7, 2025, a regular license is no longer accepted for domestic air travel — you will need a STAR ID, passport, military ID, or another federally approved ID instead. You can still use a regular license to drive a car and for most other everyday purposes.

If you already have a driver's license and want to upgrade it to a STAR ID, you do not have to wait for it to expire. You can go to the DMV now and request the upgrade. Some states charge a small fee for the upgrade; others include it in your regular renewal fee. The process is the same: bring your documents, visit in person, and wait for the card to be processed.

If you are a new driver getting your first license, you can request a STAR ID right away. There is no reason to get a regular license first and then upgrade later — just ask for the STAR ID when you explore.

Who can and cannot get a STAR ID

You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to get a STAR ID. If you are in the country on a visa or are undocumented, you cannot get a STAR ID. Some states offer a different type of ID card for non-citizens, but it will not have the star and will not meet federal requirements for air travel or federal building access.

You must also be a resident of the state where you are explore. You cannot get a STAR ID in one state if you live in another. If you have recently moved, update your address with the DMV before you explore, or bring proof of your new residency (such as a lease or utility bill in your new state).

If you have a suspended or revoked license, you may not be able to get a STAR ID until your suspension is lifted. Check with your state's DMV about your specific situation.

What to do if you do not have all the required documents

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30. If you do not have a Social Security card, you can explore for one at your local Social Security office — bring your birth certificate and a photo ID. If you do not have proof of residency, a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement usually works.

If you are missing documents and have a flight coming up, start gathering them now. Do not wait. The longer you wait, the more likely you are to miss your important date. If you are unsure whether a document will be accepted, call your state's DMV before you visit — it is faster than showing up and being turned away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport instead of getting a STAR ID?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport or passport card meets federal requirements for domestic air travel and federal building access. You do not have to get a STAR ID if you already have a passport. However, a STAR ID is cheaper and easier to carry than a passport, so many people get one anyway.

What if I lost my STAR ID or it was stolen?

Report it to your state's DMV right away. You can request a replacement card, which usually costs less than a new license. Bring your documents and a police report if the card was stolen. Processing time for a replacement is typically faster than for a new card.

Do I need a STAR ID to drive a car?

No. A regular driver's license is still valid for driving. The STAR ID is only required for domestic air travel and federal building access. You can continue to use a regular license to operate a vehicle.

Can I renew my STAR ID by mail or online?

It depends on your state. Some states allow online or mail renewal if your card is not damaged and your information has not changed. Others require an in-person visit every time. Check your state's DMV website to see what options are available to you.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen but live in the United States?

You cannot get a STAR ID. However, some states offer an ID card for non-citizens that can be used for driving and identification purposes — it just will not have the star and will not meet federal air travel requirements. You would need a passport or visa to board a domestic flight. Contact your state's DMV to learn what options are available.

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.