Which documents meet Real ID standards

A Real ID-compliant document is a driver's license, state ID card, or passport that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Not every ID your state issues is Real ID-compliant yet — your state may still be issuing older versions that don't meet the standard. The document itself will have a star symbol in the upper right corner if it complies.

Real ID documents are required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings as of May 7, 2025. If your current license or ID doesn't have the star, you can still use it for driving and everyday purposes, but you'll need either a Real ID document or a passport to board a plane within the United States.

The types of documents that can be Real ID-compliant depend on what your state offers. Most states now issue Real ID driver's licenses and state ID cards. Some states also offer Real ID passport cards (different from a passport book). A few states still issue both compliant and non-compliant versions, so you have to request the Real ID version specifically when you renew.

Key Takeaways

  • A Real ID document has a star symbol in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards for domestic air travel and federal building entry.
  • Driver's licenses, state ID cards, and passport cards can all be Real ID-compliant, but only if your state has upgraded them to meet the standard.
  • Your current license may not be Real ID-compliant even if it's valid for driving — check for the star symbol to know for certain.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and federal buildings even without Real ID compliance, so you have options beyond a Real ID license.
  • When you renew your license or ID, ask your state's DMV whether the new version will be Real ID-compliant or request it specifically if your state offers both versions.

Driver's licenses and state ID cards

Most people get their Real ID document through a driver's license or state ID card. When you renew your license at your state's DMV, you can request a Real ID version. Some states automatically issue Real ID licenses now; others require you to ask for it. The process is the same as a regular renewal — you bring your documents, pay the fee, and take a new photo — but the resulting card will have the star.

A state ID card (sometimes called a non-driver ID) is for people who don't drive. It serves the same purpose as a Real ID driver's license for air travel and federal buildings. You get it from your DMV the same way you'd renew a license, and it costs roughly the same amount. The card looks similar to a license but doesn't have driving privileges printed on it.

Both documents are valid for a set number of years — usually five or eight years depending on your state and age. When your Real ID license or card expires, you'll need to renew it to keep using it for federal purposes. Some states let you renew by mail or online; others require you to visit the DMV in person.

U.S. passports and passport cards

A U.S. passport book (the booklet you use for international travel) automatically meets Real ID standards. You don't need a separate Real ID license if you have a valid passport — you can use it for domestic flights and federal building entry. Passports are issued by the U.S. State Department, not your state DMV, and they take longer to get than a license renewal.

A passport card is a wallet-sized version of a passport that some states now offer as a Real ID option. It's smaller than a passport book and works for domestic air travel and federal buildings, but it's not valid for international travel by air (though it works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean). Passport cards are issued by the State Department and cost less than a full passport book.

If you already have a passport book, you already have a Real ID-compliant document. You don't need to get a Real ID license or passport card unless you want to. However, passports are more expensive to replace if lost and take longer to renew than a state ID, so many people keep a Real ID license as their everyday ID and use the passport only for travel.

How to tell if your current ID is Real ID-compliant

Look at the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID card. If there is a gold or black star symbol there, your ID is Real ID-compliant. If there is no star, it is not compliant. This is the only reliable way to know — you cannot tell by the issue date or any other marking.

If you're not sure, you can also check your state DMV's website. Most states have a page explaining which licenses they've issued as Real ID-compliant and which are still the older version. Some states list it by the date your license was issued; others let you check by looking up your license number online.

If your ID is not Real ID-compliant and you need one for air travel or federal building entry, you have two options: renew your license or ID card and request the Real ID version, or use a passport or passport card instead. You don't have to get a Real ID license if you have a valid passport.

State-by-state differences in Real ID documents

Not all states offer the same Real ID options. Most states issue Real ID driver's licenses and state ID cards. Some states also offer Real ID passport cards through their DMV. A few states still issue both compliant and non-compliant versions of licenses, which means you have to specifically request Real ID when you renew.

The cost of a Real ID license or card varies by state. Most states charge the same fee for a Real ID license as a regular license, but some charge a small additional fee — usually between $5 and $15. Passport cards issued by the State Department cost $35 for a new card or $30 to renew one you already have.

Processing times also vary. A Real ID license or state ID card usually takes two to four weeks if you explore in person at the DMV. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. Passport cards take longer — typically four to six weeks for routine service or two to three weeks for expedited service, and they cost more.

What documents you need to get a Real ID

To get a Real ID driver's license or state ID card, you'll bring the same documents you'd bring for any license renewal or new process. This typically includes proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or other state ID), proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of address (a utility bill or lease). Your state DMV's website lists the exact documents it accepts.

The main difference between getting a Real ID and a regular license is that you must explore in person — you cannot renew a Real ID license by mail or online in most states. You'll visit your DMV, show your documents, take a new photo, and pay the fee. The staff will verify that your documents meet Real ID standards before issuing the card.

If you're getting a passport or passport card, you'll explore through the U.S. State Department, not your state DMV. You'll need a birth certificate, proof of citizenship, a government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form. Passport applications can be submitted by mail or in person at a passport acceptance facility, which is often a post office or library.

Real ID documents for minors and special situations

Minors can get Real ID driver's licenses and state ID cards. The process is the same as for adults, but a parent or guardian must be present and sign the process. Minors' licenses are usually valid for a shorter period than adult licenses — often until age 21 — and they renew at the DMV just like adult licenses.

If you have a name change, a corrected birth certificate, or other special circumstances, you may need to bring additional documents when you explore for a Real ID. Your state DMV can tell you what you'll need. Some situations require an in-person appointment; others can be handled by mail or online.

If you're unable to visit the DMV in person, some states offer limited options. A few allow a representative to explore on your behalf if you provide a power of attorney. Others have mobile DMV units that visit certain locations. Contact your state DMV to ask what options are available in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Real ID if I have a passport?

No. A valid U.S. passport book or passport card already meets Real ID standards for domestic air travel and federal building entry. You don't need a separate Real ID license unless you want one for everyday use. However, if you lose your passport, it takes longer to replace than a state ID, so some people keep both.

Can I use an expired Real ID for air travel?

No. Your Real ID document must be valid (not expired) to use it for domestic air travel or federal building entry. If your Real ID license or card has expired, you'll need to renew it or use a passport instead. Check your document's expiration date before you travel.

What if my state hasn't issued Real ID licenses yet?

All states now issue Real ID-compliant documents, but some are still in the process of converting their entire population. If your state hasn't sent you a Real ID license yet, you can renew your license early and request the Real ID version, or you can use a passport for air travel and federal buildings until your license comes up for renewal.

Is a Real ID the same as a REAL ID card?

Yes — "Real ID" and "REAL ID" refer to the same federal standard. The official name is the REAL ID Act, but people usually call it Real ID. The document itself is a driver's license, state ID card, or passport that meets those federal standards and has a star symbol.

Can I get a Real ID online or by mail?

You cannot get a Real ID license or state ID card by mail or online — you must explore in person at your state DMV. However, you can get a passport or passport card by mail if you're renewing an existing passport. Check your state DMV's website for the exact process in your state.