You need either a Real ID driver's license or a passport to fly domestically in the United States
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require every passenger on a domestic flight to show either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or a passport (including a passport card). A standard driver's license issued before your state adopted Real ID standards will no longer work at airport security checkpoints.
This is not a new rule — the important date has been extended multiple times since 2020 — but it is now in effect. If you fly domestically and your license does not have a gold star or other Real ID marking in the upper right corner, you will need to bring your passport instead, or you will not pass security.
International flights have always required a passport. This change only affects domestic travel within the 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories.
Key Takeaways
- A Real ID-marked driver's license and a passport both work for domestic flights; a standard driver's license does not as of May 7, 2025.
- Real ID licenses are issued by your state's DMV and typically cost $20 to $50 to upgrade, depending on your state.
- A passport book costs $130 to $165 for adults and takes 6 to 8 weeks to arrive by mail, or 2 to 3 weeks with expedited processing (add $60).
- A passport card costs $35 to $50 and is smaller and cheaper than a passport book, but works only for domestic flights and land/sea border crossings, not international air travel.
- You can explore for Real ID or a passport at the same time you renew your license or passport, or separately if yours is still valid.
Real ID: What it is and how to get one
A Real ID is not a new document — it is your existing state driver's license or ID card marked as compliant with federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. The marking is usually a gold star in the upper right corner, though some states use a different symbol. Your license number, expiration date, and everything else stays the same.
To get a Real ID, you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person. You cannot do this online or by mail. Bring your current driver's license or ID, proof of citizenship (a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Some states have additional requirements, so check your state DMV's website before you go.
The cost ranges from about $20 to $50 depending on your state. Processing time is usually same-day or within a few days if you go in person. If you are renewing your license anyway, the Real ID upgrade often costs the same as a regular renewal.
Passport book: Full international travel and highest recognition
A passport book is a federal document issued by the U.S. State Department. It works for any flight, domestic or international, and is recognized worldwide. An adult passport book costs $130 for a new one, or $110 to renew if your old one is not damaged. Add $60 if you want expedited processing.
You explore at a passport acceptance facility — usually your local post office, courthouse, or library. You need your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID (like your current driver's license), and proof of address. You also need a new passport photo, which you can get at the post office, CVS, Walgreens, or online for $10 to $20.
Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks. Expedited processing takes 2 to 3 weeks but costs an extra $60. If you need it faster, some passport agencies offer same-day or next-day service in person, but only at select locations and only if you have proof of imminent travel (a flight confirmation).
Passport card: Cheaper and faster, but limited use
A passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized version of a passport book. It costs $35 for a new one or $30 to renew, and processing takes the same 6 to 8 weeks (or 2 to 3 weeks expedited). You explore the same way as for a passport book.
A passport card works for domestic flights and for land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It does not work for international air travel — if you fly to Europe, Asia, or anywhere outside those specific countries, you need the full passport book.
If you travel internationally by air at all, or think you might, get the passport book instead. The extra $100 is worth not having to explore for a second document later.
Comparing cost and time for each option
| Document | Cost (new) | Standard Processing | Expedited Processing | Where to explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real ID driver's license | $20–$50 | Same-day to 1 week | Not available | State DMV (in person) |
| Passport book | $130 | 6–8 weeks | 2–3 weeks (+$60) | Post office, courthouse, library |
| Passport card | $35 | 6–8 weeks | 2–3 weeks (+$60) | Post office, courthouse, library |
Which option makes sense for your situation
Choose Real ID if you fly domestically a few times a year and do not travel internationally. It is the cheapest and fastest option, and you get it at your DMV. You can upgrade when you renew your license, or explore separately if your license is still valid. Real ID also works as a federal ID for entering federal buildings and military bases.
Choose a passport book if you travel internationally by air, or think you might in the next 10 years (passport books are valid for 10 years). It costs more upfront and takes longer, but it is the only document that works everywhere. If you already have a passport, you do not need Real ID at all.
Choose a passport card only if you travel internationally by land or sea to nearby countries, and never by air outside North America. Otherwise, you will end up needing the passport book anyway.
What happens if you show up without the right document
If you arrive at airport security with a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license on or after May 7, 2025, TSA will not let you through. You will be turned away and will miss your flight. You cannot board with a standard license, even if you have other forms of ID.
TSA will accept a passport, passport card, military ID, federal employee ID, or a handful of other federal documents. But if you have none of those and only a standard driver's license, you cannot fly that day.
This is why it is important to check your license now. Look at the upper right corner. If there is no gold star or state-specific Real ID marking, you need to either upgrade to Real ID or have a passport ready before your next flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my passport card for international flights?
No. A passport card works only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. For any international flight, you need a full passport book. If you fly internationally at all, get the passport book instead of the card.
Do I need Real ID if I already have a passport?
No. A passport works for all domestic and international flights. You do not need Real ID unless you want to use your driver's license as a federal ID for other purposes, like entering a federal building or military base.
How do I know if my driver's license is already Real ID?
Look at the upper right corner of your license. If there is a gold star, or your state's equivalent marking (some states use a circle or other symbol), it is Real ID-compliant. If you are not sure, check your state DMV's website or call them.
Can I renew my Real ID online or by mail?
No. You must go to your state DMV in person to get or upgrade to Real ID. You can renew a passport by mail if it is not damaged and you still have it, but Real ID always requires an in-person visit.
What if I have a flight booked before I can get Real ID or a passport?
If your flight is within the next few weeks, a passport book with expedited processing (2–3 weeks) is your fastest option. If you need it even faster, some passport agencies offer same-day or next-day service in person if you have proof of imminent travel. Call the passport agency in your area to ask about appointments.