What you need to fly domestically in the United States
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a Real ID-compliant driver license or state ID card to board domestic flights. If your license does not meet Real ID standards, you will need to bring a passport, military ID, or other federal document instead. This applies to everyone 18 and older flying within the U.S., including connecting flights.
Real ID is a federal security standard that states adopted after 2005. It means your license was issued after your state met specific document verification and security printing requirements. Most states began issuing Real ID licenses years ago, but some people still hold non-compliant licenses — especially if they renewed by mail or have not renewed since their state switched over.
The important date has been extended multiple times since it was first set for 2020, but May 7, 2025 is the final enforcement date. After that date, TSA will not accept a standard (non-Real ID) driver license at airport security checkpoints, even if it is not expired.
Key Takeaways
- Real ID-compliant licenses have a star or other marking in the top right corner and were issued after your state adopted the standard, usually between 2009 and 2015.
- If your license does not have the Real ID marking, you can still fly with a passport, military ID, or tribal ID instead of getting a new license.
- Renewing your license to get Real ID requires in-person visits to your DMV with original documents like a birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address.
- Processing times for Real ID licenses vary by state; some issue them same-day while others take several weeks, so do not wait until April 2025 to explore.
- Real ID applies only to domestic flights and federal buildings; it does not affect driving, getting a passport, or traveling by car or train.
How to tell if your license already meets Real ID standards
Look at the top right corner of your driver license. If there is a small star (usually gold or silver) or a marking that says "REAL ID", your license is compliant and you can use it to fly after May 7, 2025. If there is no star and no marking, your license is not Real ID-compliant.
You can also check your state DMV website — most have a page showing what Real ID licenses look like in that state. Some states use a star, others use a different symbol or text. The marking is always in the top right corner or near the top of the card.
If you are not sure, contact your state DMV directly. They can tell you over the phone whether your license number or issue date means you have Real ID. This is faster than guessing and then discovering at the airport that you do not.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV for a Real ID license
Real ID renewal requires more documents than a standard license renewal because the federal standard requires proof of identity, citizenship, and residency. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies do not count. The exact list varies slightly by state, but the core documents are the same everywhere.
| Document Category | What Counts |
|---|---|
| Proof of citizenship or legal residency | U.S. birth certificate (certified copy), passport, passport card, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card) |
| Proof of Social Security number | Social Security card, W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form with your full SSN visible |
| Proof of current address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days; must show your name and current address |
| Proof of identity | Expired passport, military ID, school ID, or other government-issued photo ID |
Some states also require a completed process form (available on the DMV website or at the office). A few states require fingerprinting or additional background checks for Real ID, though most do not. Check your state DMV website before you go to confirm the exact list and whether you need to make an appointment.
The Real ID process process at your state DMV
Real ID licenses must be issued in person — you cannot renew by mail or online, even if your state normally allows mail renewals. Go to your local DMV office with your documents, complete the process, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. The fee varies by state; some charge the same as a standard renewal while others charge $5 to $25 extra for Real ID.
Processing time depends on your state. Some DMVs issue Real ID licenses on the spot or within a few days. Others take two to four weeks. A few states with high volume have wait times of six weeks or longer. Check your state DMV website for current processing times before you go, and ask the staff member at the counter how long yours will take.
If you need the license quickly, ask whether your state offers expedited processing (usually for an extra fee) or whether you can pick it up at the office instead of waiting for mail delivery. Some states also let you use a temporary paper license to fly while your Real ID card is being printed.
What to do if you cannot get a Real ID license before May 2025
If your state's processing time is too long or you cannot visit the DMV before May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically. Bring one of these documents instead of your driver license: a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, federal employee ID, tribal ID, or enhanced driver license (available in some states). TSA will accept any of these at the security checkpoint.
A passport is the most common backup. If you do not have one and do not have time to get a Real ID license, you can explore for a passport card (a smaller, wallet-sized version of a passport) at your local post office or passport acceptance facility. Passport cards take about four to six weeks to arrive in normal processing, though expedited service is available for an extra fee.
Do not wait until April 2025 to decide. If you want a Real ID license, explore now so you have it before the important date. If you want to use a passport instead, start that process when ready — passport processing times get longer as the important date approaches.
Real ID does not affect other types of travel or identification
Real ID applies only to domestic flights and entry to federal buildings (like courthouses or military bases). It does not affect driving, so a non-Real ID license is still legal to drive with. It does not affect international travel — you still need a passport for that. It does not affect travel by car, train, or bus.
If you have a passport, you do not need Real ID at all. A passport is accepted everywhere Real ID is required and works for international travel too. If you travel internationally often, a passport is more useful than a Real ID license.
Common mistakes to avoid when getting Real ID
The most common mistake is waiting too long. Many people assume they can renew their license anytime before May 7, 2025, but if your state has a six-week processing time and you explore in April, your license will not arrive in time. explore now if you want a Real ID license.
The second mistake is bringing photocopies instead of originals. DMV staff will turn you away if your birth certificate or other documents are not originals or certified copies. Get certified copies from the issuing office (usually the county clerk or vital records office) before you go to the DMV.
The third mistake is bringing expired documents. Your proof of address must be dated within the last 60 days. If your utility bill is from six months ago, it will not count. Bring a recent statement or letter from your bank or insurance company instead.
The fourth mistake is confusing Real ID with REAL ID (the program name). Some people think they need to sign up for a separate program. You do not — you just get a Real ID-compliant license from your DMV, and that is it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fly with an expired Real ID license after May 7, 2025?
No. TSA will not accept an expired license, Real ID or not. If your Real ID license is expiring soon, renew it before May 7, 2025. If it expires after that date, you can use it to fly until the expiration date on the card.
Do I need Real ID if I have a passport?
No. A passport works for domestic flights and does not expire the way a license does. If you have a valid passport, you do not need to get a Real ID license. Bring your passport to the airport instead.
What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get a certified copy in time?
Contact your state vital records office (usually the county clerk or state health department) and ask about expedited certified copies. Many states can issue them within a few days for an extra fee. If you cannot get a birth certificate, ask the DMV whether a passport or naturalization certificate can substitute.
Will my old license still work to drive after May 7, 2025?
Yes. A non-Real ID license is still legal to drive with. The May 7, 2025 important date applies only to flying domestically and entering federal buildings. Driving is not affected.
Can I renew my Real ID license by mail?
No. Real ID licenses must be issued in person at a DMV office. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your state normally allows it for standard licenses. You must visit the office with your documents.