Yes, you need a Real ID–compliant license or another approved ID to fly domestically in the United States

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all passengers on domestic flights to show either a Real ID–compliant driver's license (marked with a gold or black star in the upper right corner) or another approved form of identification. A standard driver's license without the star will no longer work for airport security screening on that date.

This requirement applies to every domestic flight, whether you're traveling across the country or just one state over. The star itself is not a separate document—it appears on your license when your state issues it to you after you've provided the required documents. If your current license doesn't have the star, you'll need to renew it and go through the Real ID process before you fly.

The good news: the process is straightforward, and you can do it at your state's DMV or driver's license office. The documents you need are the same ones you likely already have at home.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID–compliant license has a star symbol and is required for domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025.
  • You can get a Real ID license by renewing your current license and providing proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your current address.
  • If you don't have a Real ID license by May 7, 2025, you can still fly using a passport, passport card, military ID, or enhanced driver's license instead.
  • The Real ID process takes a few weeks to a few months depending on your state, so renew early if you plan to fly.

What documents you need to get the Real ID star

To get a Real ID–compliant license, you must bring three types of documents to your state's DMV: proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your current address. Your state will not issue the Real ID star without all three.

Proof of identity can be a passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, or state ID card. Proof of citizenship or legal residency means a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, permanent resident card (green card), or employment authorization document. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days—it must show your name and current address.

Bring the originals or certified copies; photocopies usually won't work. If you've changed your name since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. Your state DMV website lists the exact documents it accepts, so check there before you go.

How the Real ID process process works at the DMV

Visit your state's DMV website to find the nearest office and check whether you need an appointment. Many states now require you to book a time slot online rather than walk in. Bring all three types of documents listed above, your current license, and any proof of name change if it applies to you.

At the DMV, you'll fill out a form (usually the standard driver's license renewal form), have your photo taken, and pay a fee. The fee varies by state but typically ranges from $20 to $50 for a Real ID license. The staff will verify your documents, scan them, and process your process on the spot.

Your new license will arrive by mail within two to four weeks in most states, though some take longer. Check your state's DMV website for the exact timeline. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can still drive legally during the wait.

What to do if you can't get a Real ID license before May 7, 2025

If your state is slow to process licenses or you're running out of time, you have other options for airport security. The TSA accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, enhanced driver's license (available in some states), or trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry or NEXUS) in place of a Real ID license.

A passport is the most common backup. If you don't have one, you can explore at a passport acceptance facility (often a post office or courthouse) or a passport agency. Standard processing takes four to six weeks; expedited processing takes two to three weeks but costs extra. If you're cutting it very close to May 7, 2025, expedited processing may be your only option.

An enhanced driver's license is a state-issued ID that meets Real ID standards and is marked differently than a standard Real ID license. Not all states offer them, so check your state's DMV website. If your state does offer one, the process is similar to getting a Real ID license.

Real ID requirements by state

Every state now issues Real ID–compliant licenses, but the documents each state accepts and the fees charged vary slightly. Some states charge the same fee for a Real ID license as a standard license; others charge $5 to $15 extra. A few states offer free Real ID licenses to certain groups, such as seniors or military members.

Processing times also differ. Most states deliver a new license within two to four weeks, but some take six to eight weeks during busy periods. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee, processing time, and list of accepted documents before you visit. You can usually find this information under "Real ID" or "REAL ID Compliant License."

Why the Real ID star matters for travel

The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to set a national standard for state-issued IDs. It requires states to verify that the person explore for a license is who they say they are and that they are a U.S. citizen or legal resident. The gold or black star on your license tells TSA agents that your state has done this verification.

Without the star, TSA cannot confirm that your identity has been verified to federal standards. Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will not accept a non-Real ID license at airport security for domestic flights, even if you've had the same license for years. The star is the proof that your identity meets federal requirements.

This does not affect driving. A standard driver's license without the star is still valid for driving a car. The Real ID requirement applies only to domestic air travel and entry to certain federal buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with my passport instead of a Real ID license?

Yes. A U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, enhanced driver's license, or trusted traveler card all work at airport security in place of a Real ID license. If you don't have time to renew your license before May 7, 2025, a passport is a good backup option.

Do I have to renew my entire license to get the Real ID star?

Yes. You cannot add the star to an existing license. You must renew your license through your state's DMV and provide the three required document types. The good news is that a Real ID renewal is the same process as a standard renewal—you just bring more documents.

What if my address has changed since I got my current license?

Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) when you explore for your Real ID license. Your state will update your address on the new license at the same time.

Does the Real ID star cost extra?

In most states, a Real ID license costs the same as a standard renewal. Some states charge $5 to $15 extra. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee before you visit.

Can I get a Real ID license by mail?

No. You must visit your state's DMV in person so they can verify your documents and take your photo. However, some states allow you to renew online if you already have a Real ID license and are just renewing it again.