Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers aged 18 and over will need a REAL ID-compliant driverโs license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Make sure youโre ready by understanding the requirements and obtaining your REAL ID before the deadline.
For official details, check out the Department of Homeland Securityโs REAL ID page.
What is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driverโs licenses and identification cards. A REAL ID-compliant license is typically marked with a star in the upper right corner. Some states also issue enhanced driverโs licenses, which are also acceptable for domestic air travel.
You can find more details on the DHS website: REAL ID Information.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
If you donโt have a REAL ID-compliant license, you can still fly domestically with one of these acceptable forms of identification:
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (including IDs issued to dependents)
- Permanent Resident Card
- Border Crossing Card
- Federally Recognized Tribal-Issued Photo ID
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
For a complete list, visit the TSAโs identification requirements.
How to Obtain a REAL ID
To get a REAL ID-compliant license, youโll need to visit your stateโs Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with the following documents:
- Proof of Identity: Valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or similar document.
- Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub.
- Proof of Residency: Utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement (typically two documents are required).
Requirements vary by state, so be sure to check with your local DMV for specific details. You can also visit USA.govโs REAL ID page for more guidance.
Impact on Travelers
If you donโt have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification by May 7, 2025, you wonโt be allowed through TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. To avoid last-minute stress or travel disruptions, plan to obtain your REAL ID well before the deadline.
Additional Resources
For more information on REAL ID and to check your stateโs progress, visit the official Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page.
