A standard driver's license works for domestic flights, but only until May 7, 2025

You can board a domestic flight with a regular driver's license right now. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts it at airport security checkpoints. However, starting May 7, 2025, TSA will no longer accept a standard driver's license for domestic air travel — you will need either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or another approved form of federal ID.

This important date applies to all domestic flights, including short regional trips. It does not affect international travel (which has always required a passport) or driving a car. If you have not yet obtained a Real ID-compliant license, you have time, but the window is closing. Many states have long wait times for license renewals, so waiting until April 2025 could leave you unable to fly.

The good news: getting a Real ID-compliant license follows the same process as renewing your regular license in most states. You visit your state's DMV, bring the required documents, and pay a small fee. The license looks almost identical to a standard one — it straightforward has a star or other marking in the corner to show it meets federal standards.

Key Takeaways

  • A regular driver's license works for domestic flights until May 7, 2025, after which TSA will only accept Real ID-compliant licenses or other federal ID.
  • You obtain a Real ID-compliant license through your state's DMV using the same renewal process, but you must bring specific documents proving citizenship and identity.
  • A Real ID-compliant license costs slightly more than a standard license and is marked with a star or other symbol in the corner.
  • If you do not have a Real ID-compliant license by May 2025, you can still fly domestically using a passport, passport card, military ID, or other TSA-approved federal ID.

What documents you need to get a Real ID-compliant license

Your state's DMV will require you to prove three things: your identity, your citizenship, and your current address. The exact documents vary by state, but the general categories are the same everywhere.

For identity, bring an unexpired passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate. For citizenship, bring a passport, passport card, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card. For current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. Some states accept a government check or tax return instead.

You will also need your current driver's license or state ID card. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change. Visit your state's DMV website before you go — each state publishes its exact list of acceptable documents, and some have stricter rules than others.

The difference between a Real ID license and a standard license

A Real ID-compliant license meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It contains additional security features and is linked to a database that verifies your identity against federal records. A standard driver's license does not have these features.

On the surface, the licenses look nearly identical. The main visible difference is a small star or other marking (usually in the upper right corner) on a Real ID license. Some states use different colors or designs, but the star is the most common indicator. If you are unsure whether your current license is Real ID-compliant, check your state's DMV website or look at your license — the marking should be obvious if it is there.

The cost is slightly higher: a Real ID-compliant license typically costs $5 to $25 more than a standard renewal, depending on your state. The license is valid for the same length of time as a standard license — usually 4 to 8 years, depending on your state and age.

What happens if you do not have a Real ID license on May 7, 2025

If you arrive at the airport without a Real ID-compliant license after May 7, 2025, TSA will not accept it as your only form of ID. You will not be able to pass through security and board your flight unless you have an alternative form of federal ID.

The TSA accepts several other documents for domestic flights: a valid passport, passport card, military ID, federal employee ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. If you have any of these, you can still fly. However, if you have none of these documents and only a standard driver's license, you will be turned away at security.

This is why getting a Real ID license before the important date matters. It is the simplest option for most people because you already know how to renew a driver's license. Waiting until after May 7 and then scrambling to get a passport or other federal ID will take longer and cost more.

How to renew your license for Real ID compliance

Start by visiting your state's DMV website and finding the page for Real ID or federal ID compliance. Most states have a dedicated section explaining the process and listing required documents. Some states allow you to start the renewal online, while others require you to visit in person.

Gather your documents (identity, citizenship, and address proof) and your current license. Schedule an appointment at your local DMV if your state requires one — many do, and wait times can be weeks or months. Bring everything with you, fill out the renewal form, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your Real ID license will arrive by mail within 1 to 3 weeks in most states.

If you are renewing your license anyway (because it is expiring), the process is identical — you straightforward make sure you bring the citizenship and identity documents. If your license is not expiring soon, you can still renew early for Real ID compliance; your state will extend your license expiration date from the renewal date.

States with longer wait times and how to plan ahead

Some states have experienced significant delays in processing license renewals, particularly in 2024 and early 2025. California, New York, Texas, and Florida have reported wait times of 4 to 8 weeks or longer for mail delivery of new licenses. Other states process renewals in 1 to 2 weeks.

If you live in a state with known delays, do not wait until April 2025 to renew. Start the process now if your license will expire before or shortly after May 7, 2025. If you need to fly before your new license arrives, remember that you can use a passport, passport card, or other TSA-approved federal ID at security in the meantime.

Check your state's DMV website for current processing times before you schedule your appointment. Many states publish average wait times online, and some allow you to check the status of your renewal process after you submit it.

Real ID compliance for people who cannot visit the DMV in person

If you have a disability, live far from a DMV office, or face other barriers to visiting in person, some states offer alternatives. A few states allow you to renew by mail if you are renewing an existing license and have not changed your address or name. Others offer mobile DMV services that visit rural or underserved areas.

Contact your state's DMV directly to ask about your options. Explain your situation — many DMVs have accommodations or workarounds for people who cannot visit an office. If your state offers no alternative, you may need to arrange transportation to the nearest office or ask a trusted person to help you get there.

Do not assume you cannot get a Real ID license because of access issues. Call your state DMV before the important date and ask what options exist for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID license if I always travel with a passport?

No. If you have a valid passport or passport card, you can use it for domestic flights instead of a Real ID license. However, most people find it more convenient to use their driver's license at airport security, so getting a Real ID license is still worth considering if you fly more than once or twice a year.

Can I fly domestically with a standard license after May 7, 2025?

No. After May 7, 2025, TSA will not accept a standard driver's license for domestic flights. You will need a Real ID-compliant license, passport, passport card, military ID, or other TSA-approved federal ID.

How much does a Real ID license cost?

The cost varies by state but typically ranges from $5 to $25 more than a standard license renewal. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee. Some states charge the same price for both; others charge more for Real ID compliance.

What if I renew my license but do not request Real ID compliance?

You can renew your license as a standard license if you choose. However, you will need to renew again or obtain another form of federal ID before May 7, 2025, if you want to fly domestically. It is simpler to get Real ID compliance during your renewal rather than renewing twice.

Does a Real ID license work for international travel?

No. For international flights and travel outside the United States, you need a passport or passport card. A Real ID license is only for domestic flights and federal buildings. It does not replace a passport for any international purpose.