airline travel id requirements

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How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act is a law that sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards (IDs).

Why upgrade your license to a REAL ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, if you have not upgraded your driver’s license or state-issued ID to be REAL ID-compliant, you will not be able to use it to:

• Board federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Access federal government facilities or military installations
• Enter nuclear power plants

Visit the REAL ID website for more details and frequently asked questions.

Check to see if your license or state ID is already REAL ID-compliant

If your driver's license or state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, it is already REAL-ID-compliant. There is nothing more you need to do.

How to get a REAL ID

When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see what documentation you will need. Your new card will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right.

Do you need a REAL ID to fly?

If you do not upgrade your license or state ID, you can use a passport or one of these other acceptable forms of identification to fly . 

Can you still get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID?

You will still be able to get a driver's license or state ID card that is not REAL ID-compliant. But you will not be able to use it for air travel or to get into federal facilities or military installations. Find and visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to see how to get a non-REAL ID-compliant license or state ID.

LAST UPDATED: May 23, 2024

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The Real ID Deadline Is Approaching—Here’s How to Be Prepared

In less than one year, a major change is coming to the airport security process. Starting in the spring of 2025, all US fliers will need a new type of identification in order to make it past the TSA checkpoint and board their flights.

The new federal identification rules, called Real ID, are set to go into effect on May 7, 2025. After that date, travelers will only be able to use certain enhanced forms of identification at airport security. The new policies will apply to all flights, including domestic ones . The biggest change for fliers will be that a driver’s license will no longer be valid ID to present to TSA. Instead, all airline passengers in the US will need to show a Real-ID compliant driver’s license—which requires a few extra steps to get than a standard license—or another approved ID, like a passport or Global Entry card.

Although the rollout of Real ID has been postponed many times (it was originally supposed to be enforced way back in 2008), the May 2025 date seems to be more firmly set. So if you don’t have a Real ID-compliant form of identification, now is definitely the time to get one.

Fortunately, it’s possible to get a Real ID driver’s license at most local DMVs throughout the 50 states and the five US territories. The only catch is that it does require you to present additional paperwork and pay a little more than a standard license renewal.

Below is a complete guide to the new Real ID rules, including how to obtain a compliant driver’s license, what other forms of identification will be accepted, and what will happen if you show up at the airport unprepared.

What is the new Real ID requirement?

The regulation is part of a law passed by Congress in 2005, which set new federal security standards for driver’s licenses and other forms of identification used to board planes in the US. The new standards apply to all states and territories. After the rules go into effect, driver’s licenses and other IDs that don’t meet the new requirements will not be accepted by TSA for passing through airport security checkpoints.

Even if you have a TSA PreCheck or a Clear membership , you will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification to make it past airport security. A Global Entry card is considered Real ID–compliant and will be accepted under the new rules. Children under 18 get some leeway, as TSA does not require them to present identification when traveling with a companion within the US. As always, on an international trip, passports and other documents may be required by the airline or other agencies.

When is the Real ID deadline?

The new rules will go into effect on May 7, 2025. That's the date that all US residents need to have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or other approved identification in hand to make it past airport security.

How do I get a Real ID driver's license?

All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the five US territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, US Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands) are now all issuing driver's licenses that are compliant with the new rules. You simply need to visit your DMV in person to renew or replace your old license with a Real ID version.

It's important to note that, confusingly, states that are Real ID compliant are also still allowed to issue licenses that are not considered Real IDs, so be sure to clarify with your DMV that you are requesting a Real ID.

Applying for a Real ID usually requires more documentation to prove your identity—and sometimes costs more—than obtaining a regular driver's license. Your state's DMV website should have a list of the required paperwork. Typically, the required documents include a birth certificate or passport, social security card, multiple proofs of residence in your state (like a utility bill or bank statement), and proof of US citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or temporary lawful status.

Depending on whether you already have a license or other factors like citizenship status, additional documents may be required or you may be eligible to substitute other documents for ones you may be missing (for instance, you may be able to show a W-2 form with your full social security number in lieu of a SSN card). Be sure to read the list of required documents carefully. The Department of Homeland Security has an interactive map tool on its site that navigates users to each state's individual requirements.

What other forms of identification work to board a plane under the new rules?

Valid passports or passport cards will still work to get you through security for domestic flights, and passengers will still need them to board international flights . Global Entry membership cards are also valid for domestic flights under the new regulations, as are various forms of military ID, tribal-issued ID, and other government-issued IDs. You can see a full list of accepted documents on the TSA’s website.

How do I know if my current driver’s license is acceptable under Real ID rules?

Real ID driver’s licenses are marked with a star in the top corner. (It’s worth noting one confusing state policy: Ohio's old licenses have a gold star, while its Real IDs have a black star.) Enhanced driver’s licenses—which are slightly different, but are issued by some states in addition to Real IDs and are also acceptable under the new rules—have a flag in the corner.

What about airports that accept mobile driver's licenses?

Earlier in 2022, TSA began allowing fliers with PreCheck to use a mobile driver's license uploaded to their iPhone at certain airports. However, the agency says that any passenger using a mobile driver's license still needs to carry a physical ID with them as a backup. So even TSA PreCheck passengers opting to use their iPhone to get through security will still need to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification on them.

What if my airport uses TSA’s new facial recognition technology?

Travelers flying out of the growing number of airports with facial scanners at the TSA checkpoint will still be required to present a Real-ID compliant form of identification. TSA’s facial recognition system, also called CAT-2, requires passengers to scan both their IDs and their faces, and the algorithm matches the biometric scan to the photo on the ID.

Does my child need a Real ID to fly?

According to the TSA, children under 18 are not required to show identification at the security checkpoint when flying with a companion. (The companion, however, needs a valid form of ID.) The agency does encourage travelers to double check their airline's identification rules for minors before arriving at the airport.

What happens if I show up at the airport without an acceptable ID under the new rules?

TSA says you will not be let through security, and you will not be able to fly. In rare occasions in the past, if a flier forgot their ID for a domestic trip, TSA might have worked with them to verify their identity in a different way—like by asking them certain questions about their personal information. But the agency says that after Real ID is implemented, those days will be over. "TSA has no plans to provide an alternate verification process to confirm a traveler’s identity," says TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein. "Counting on TSA to provide that option to travelers who do not have a Real ID-compliant driver license or identification card is not a good strategy."

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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REAL ID: What Travelers Need to Know

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Table of Contents

What is a REAL ID?

Do i need real id to fly in 2024, what is the real id act, how will real id affect your travels.

The deadline to get a REAL ID has been extended several times, and for many reasons. The initial deadline was towards the tail end of 2020, but the global pandemic derailed people from taking trips to the Department of Motor Vehicles to get a fresh identification card.

At the end of 2022, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it had extended the REAL ID full enforcement date by another 24 months. The deadline is now May 7, 2025.

The DHS cited "the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ability to obtain a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card" as the primary reason for the delay.

But once May 2025 rolls around (and assuming the deadline doesn't get extended again), U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. That means you'll eventually need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license (or another government-issued REAL ID) to be able to fly domestically, similar to how you need a passport to fly internationally.

While the should come as good news to procrastinators — considering the possible back up with passport applications (which may take as long as six months for you to receive from the time you apply) — it's still a wise move to get that REAL ID sooner rather than later.

REAL ID is an enhanced driver's license that meets newly issued requirements that ensure secure production and issuance of licenses and IDs. The goal is to prevent or severely curb copying or altering.

No, you do not need a REAL ID to fly in 2024. You have until early May 2025 to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license.

The REAL ID Act is a federal law that was passed in 2005 in response to the 9/11 attacks. The goal was to set standards for sources of identification used to enter federal facilities and fly on commercial aircraft, which are regulated by the federal government.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) then announced plans to phase in more secure driver's licenses that are compliant with REAL ID guidelines. These require applicants to provide documents that show the following as proof of identity:

Legal name.

Date of birth.

Social Security number.

Primary address (two items).

Citizenship status.

It has taken several years to implement the REAL ID Act because driver’s licenses are issued by states' departments of motor vehicles, so each state had to comply with the requirements outlined in the act before issuing new IDs to residents.

There are a few things contributing to the confusion surrounding REAL ID. Some states have started issuing Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL), and they work the same as REAL ID. Those states include New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Vermont and Washington.

To figure out whether your license is compliant, look for a black or gold star in the upper right-hand corner, like this:

Once the new policy goes into effect, domestic airline passengers who are older than 18 will need to have a REAL ID or other acceptable identification (this could be a passport) to get past TSA security. There are a few other forms of ID beyond a REAL ID, passport or EDL that can be used to board a domestic flight, including:

DHS trusted traveler ID.

Passport card.

Border crossing card.

Permanent resident card.

Check the Transportation Security Administration rules to see if you have an acceptable alternate form of ID. But in other words, if you're procrastinating on getting your REAL ID but have a flight scheduled after May 7, 2025 (and you don't anticipate updating your ID in the meantime), you could present something like a passport, and be able to fly.

And with that in mind, go ahead and apply for that REAL ID anyway. You likely don't want to carry your valuable passport on a domestic trip, as it's annoying to replace should you lose it. Get that REAL ID now, and leave your passport at home.

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REAL ID Update

Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a state-issued REAL ID-compliant license or identification card, or another acceptable form of ID (such as a passport), to fly within the United States. Please   visit tsa.gov  for a list of acceptable forms of ID and additional information regarding REAL ID.

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REAL ID: New Deadline Announced for Air Travel ID Requirements

Update: real id deadline postponed to 2023.

*Due to circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the national emergency declaration, the Department of Homeland Security is extending the REAL ID enforcement deadline (again.) Now, the new deadline for REAL ID enforcement is October 1, 2023. (More details) .

Now, according to the Department of Homeland Security’s Secretary

As our country continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, extending the Real ID full enforcement deadline will give states needed time to reopen their driver’s licensing operations and ensure their residents can obtain a Real ID-compliant license or identification card. Alejandro N. Mayorkas

Beginning * October 1, 2023 , every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another  acceptable form of ID  to fly within the United States.

A little more than a year away, the TSA is changing its identification requirements. Here’s exactly what this means for you, and how TSA “REAL ID” protocol affects future air travel. Effective on Oct. 1, 2020 ( Extended to October 1, 2023 ) travelers will not be allowed to board a flight without a REAL ID , or some kind of alternative identification such as a passport.

If you have been inside an airport recently, you may have seen signage at TSA checkpoints that announce there are going to be changes to what constitutes an acceptable ID for air travel.

In fact, the TSA has begun an awareness program to educate flyers. At many TSA checkpoints (where they verify your documents) if your ID is not REAL ID Compliant, you may hear the agent say “ Beginning October 2021 you will not be allowed to fly with your current ID. ”

Well, soon, the TSA Real ID requirements will mean you must have compliant identification cards for domestic air travel.

First, What Is TSA Compliant REAL ID?

REAL ID is the result of congressional legislation — one of those laws enacted after 9/11. The government passed the REAL ID Act in 2005.

The Act established specific minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. REAL ID prohibits federal agencies from accepting those licenses and IDs from states that are not in compliance — more on that later. This legislation meant to eliminate potential airline terrorism by increasing the security requirements for documents that would give passengers access to airplanes.

What’s The Difference Between the Old & New TSA Compliant REAL IDs?

The new identification cards are being built with some newer, cutting-edge technology that will make them much harder to forge. Additionally, obtaining a state ID will require supplementary supporting documents that not all the states currently collect.

Why Are Many People Just Hearing About REAL ID Requirements Now?

It’s been a difficult and often contentious battle getting each of the fifty states into compliance with the new identification requirements. There have been delays and extensions since first enacted into law. In fact, it’s been nearly 15 years since the legislation passed and finally we are at a point where implementation in America’s airports is going to become a reality. All states must be in compliance by October 1, 2023. That’s why it’s important now to know what is going on.

How Can I Tell If My ID and My State Driver’s License Are TSA REAL ID Compliant?

Not All ID’s Are ‘REAL ID’ Compliant

Nearly all the states with issued compliant ID’s have a black or gold star on the front of the card — in the upper right hand corner with a few exceptions.

To complicate matters a bit, Hawaii, Tennessee and Utah are REAL ID compliant, but do not have the star identifier. You can check with your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you’re not certain. State IDs not in compliance say “Not for Federal Identification” or “Federal Limits Apply.” You can check out the current list of compliant states on the Department of Homeland Security’s website.

If My State Is On That Compliant List, Then Is My ID Compliant?

Not necessarily. You may have acquired your license before it was compliant. In that case, you need to get a new and compliant ID. If your ID doesn’t have the gold or black star in the upper right corner (and it’s not from Hawaii, Tennessee or Utah,) you should visit your DMV and check to make sure your ID is compliant, or get a new ID.

If I Have TSA PreCheck Do I Need a REAL ID?

Yes, although TSA PreCheck is a great benefit to have, it will not prevent you from having to present a compliant ID to pass through a TSA security checkpoint and board a flight.

With the popularity of credit cards that include PreCheck, membership has increased overall.

If you want to get free TSA PreCheck, these credit cards include Global Entry and TSA PreCheck reimbursement, among other benefits:

• The Platinum Card from American Express
• Chase Sapphire Reserve
• Capital One Venture Rewards Card

What Happens If I Ignore This and Try to Fly With a Non-Compliant ID?

You won’t fly.  Even if you have another state government issued ID, the TSA has made it quite clear that anyone who fails to present a REAL ID compliant ID will not be allowed to pass through a TSA checkpoint and board an airplane after October 1, 2023. In that case, you’ll need a passport or passport card to fly domestically.

It is up to you, the traveler, to know if your ID is compliant and to make efforts to ensure you have an acceptable ID for travel. Take steps now. You still have several months before the October 1, 2023 deadline to get the proper ID from your DMV.

Will There Be Any More Extensions?

Hey, we are talking about the US government, so anything’s possible. There have been a lot of delays and extensions as I mentioned.

But don’t count on any more as we are down to the ‘eleventh hour’ on full implementation of the REAL ID requirements. There are some real issues with getting some states to issue the REAL ID cards. For example, Alaska and California were granted an extension for the dates they must begin issuing the cards, but that does not change the TSA’s October 1, 2021 deadline for travel. If your state has been granted such an extension, you should check back often on when exactly they will issue the new ID’s.

Here is the latest extension information, provided by Department of Homeland Security

* indicates state is issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs

What Should You Do Right Now?

If you do not have REAL ID compliant license, you should first check to see if your state is already compliant.

Here’s a graphic to help you see where your state might fall in the requirements, provided by the TSA (but this is subject to change)

Timeline of REAL ID TSA Air Travel Requirements

If your state is compliant, you should check to see if your ID is compliant. If not, make the effort to get yourself a new ID. You probably will have to produce a verified copy of your original birth certificate and proof of a valid Social Security number to meet your state’s identification requirements.

If your state is not compliant, then contact your DMV to find out when they expect to be compliant. You’ve got some time, but make a plan to get your compliant ID. Remember, the TSA will not be enforcing these new rules until October 1, 2023.

“Homeland Security established some guidelines for all 50 states to abide by,” Secretary of State Jesse White said in May. Here’s the TSA’s checklist to get a Real ID: https://realid.ilsos.gov/checklist.html .

In addition the Secretary of State’s website  has more information on the Real ID.

Start Early, Beat the Rush to Get Your TSA REAL ID

My suggestion is to start the process of getting a new ID early. Even if you don’t fly often, or don’t plan to fly in the foreseeable future, I still suggest you get a compliant ID. You never know if something might come up that required you to travel. If that happened, you wouldn’t want to be ‘grounded’ because you didn’t have proper identification.

States are making the efforts to be federally compliant and they understand that every resident will eventually need one. They are making the effort to get this done in time. But don’t delay; the rush is sure to be ugly as October 2023 approaches. I am imagining throngs of people descending upon their local DMV offices at the last moment once they realize they will be denied by the TSA if they don’t have a REAL ID compliant license (or ID card.)

Some Additional Questions Answered

Do i need a tsa compliant id to vote.

No. The REAL ID requirements neither affect voter access nor voter registration processes.

What About International Travel?

REAL ID has no effect on the requirements for international travel. Every passenger still is required to have a valid passport for international travel. You will still need your passport to leave the country.

I know there has been a lot of confusion and misinformation regarding the new TSA REAL ID air travel requirements. Please let me know in the comments section if you have any additional questions.

What About the Trusted Traveler Program, or Global Entry?

Technically, the Real ID technically is not mandatory because passengers may instead use other approved documents. This includes a passport, passport card, U.S. military ID, Enhanced ID (offered in some states) or an ID from the federal government’s Trusted Traveler Program, such as a Global Entry card.

The REAL ID Final Review

REAL ID’s will be required of all air passengers soon. October 2023 is the latest deadline set by the federal government. Beginning on October 1, 2023 , every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another  acceptable form of ID  to fly within the United States.

If you have more questions, please ask away in the comments below:

The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

Miles Jackson

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Washington state is a loser. They wanted to help illegal aliens so the DL is NOT compliant. However, they got around the law saying you can buy a more expensive “enhanced driver’s license”. Many states issue DL that are compliant but not Washington state.

Just get a passport. If you want less bulk for domestic flights, get a passport card. Works not only in US airports but all airports.

John, Great suggestion for travelers. The cost is $65 for adults (for the passport card alone.) A new US passport will run you $145 (renewal $110.) SO, if you were getting your passport for the first time ($145) and a passport card with it ($65) expect it to cost $210. Then pull out your passport card like a credit card from you wallet, billfold, purse or travel document carrier.

If you purchase a Compliant License could you then use the TSA Precheck line?

ZDENKO- No, sorry. One does not get TSA PreCheck without going through a separate process. But you’ll need a compliant ID to get through security either way.

My drivers license does not expire for another 4 years. It will cost $40 to get the enhanced one. Can I apply for a real ID for $10 and will that work to fly. I am on a fixed budget and cannot throw away money when not necessary.

Hi Gary C- Unfortunately no. You will be required to get a new driver’s license issued by your state (at whatever cost that is set by them.) The $10 is a surcharge added onto (in most jurisdictions) the standard cost for your driver’s license. You are forced to get a completely new identification (in this case, driver’s license) that complies with the REAL ID requirements.

Ohio does, in fact, offer a compliant license with white star encased in a black circle, next to a gold version of the state of Ohio. I got one in April of 2019.

Hi Mike M- Thanks for the comment. I’ve verified with the DHS website and updated the article to reflect that Ohio does have a REAL ID with a white star within a black circle, as you mentioned. Thanks for that!

Your link points to sgn archived DHS webpage.

Hi Debit – Thanks for that catch. Guess the government doesn’t maintain that list anymore. However, I have updated the post with the current map as well as new link provided by the Department of Homeland Security for the latest information on States’ compliance with the new REAL ID requirements. Thanks for reading!

How are they going to deal with people whose Real ID is lost/stolen at the destination? This could be particularly problematic if the destination (or the home state/territory) is not in the 48 contiguous states.

T- That’s a great question and one that has come a few times in my research. However, no one seems to have a definitive answer and it will probably vary greatly for each issuing State. Bottom line is it will definitely be a huge problem if someone doesn’t have a backup (i.e. passport) identification so they could board a returning flight. Thanks for your input!

I read recently that Global Entry is also acceptable. Can you verify this?

Hi Jeanie- There are a lot of misunderstandings and mis-facts about REAL ID. Those who do not plan to fly after Sept. 30, 2020, can continue to use their current state-issued driver’s license until it expires. So can air travelers who have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, a military ID, a DHS Global Entry card, a permanent resident card or a passport issued by a foreign government.

Question are TWIC cards, which provide a Known Traveler ID going to be acceptable?

Stephen- Yes, Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC®) are accepted under the REAL ID program!

Do you need to participate in the Trusted Traveler Program if you have a Real ID?

Carl- No, you do not need to participate in the Trusted Traveler Program if you have a Real ID. In fact, it also works the other way. If you have an ID in the Trusted Traveler Program (like Global Entry) you can use that ID as your REAL ID. Hopefully, that makes sense. Thanks for the question, which I know may help other readers.

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Did you Know?

Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

Don’t Get Turned Away. Get REAL ID Today.

U.S. airlines are working closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to keep passengers safe. Effective May 7, 2025, travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other approved identification to pass through TSA checkpoints at airports.

That means passengers who are not prepared by the deadline will not be allowed to pass through TSA checkpoints— even for domestic flights.  To make sure you don’t get turned away, get REAL ID today!

REAL ID Compliance Status

Choose your state or U.S. territory for the current REAL ID compliance status and information on how you can obtain REAL ID-compliant identification.

*The states highlighted above offer alternative identification cards, such as an enhanced driver’s license, which also meet the REAL ID security requirements.

Check for the Star

REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification have been available for some time and you may already meet the new security standards. In most states, REAL ID compliance identification cards are marked with a star as shown in the examples below.

Some states offer an alternate compliant driver’s license that does not include a star, such as an enhanced driver’s license.   For details about REAL ID-compliant identification cards in your state, select your state on the REAL ID compliance map.

Other Acceptable Identification

Passengers can present a state-issued REAL ID driver’s license or identification to pass TSA inspection, but these other federally-issued identifications will also be permitted to pass through airport screening:

• U.S. Passport
• DHS Trusted Traveler Card
• U.S. Military ID

Related News

This important security change is the result of the REAL ID Act of 2005, which established minimum standards and security enhancements for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification and prohibits federal agencies, like TSA, from accepting licenses or identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.

Read more   on TSA’s REAL ID requirements.

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Planning to Fly? You’ll Need This ID.

For years, the government has warned travelers they will need a security-enhanced Real ID to board domestic flights, and for years the requirement has been delayed. Now they mean it.

By Debra Kamin

It’s a change nearly 20 years in the making: a post-Sept. 11 law requiring that U.S. travelers carry more than a standard driver’s license to board a domestic flight. Now, after years of delays, it is finally kicking into gear.

Beginning May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers flying within the United States will need to show Transportation Security Administration agents either a security-enhanced driver’s license that’s Real ID-compliant or another T.S.A.-approved form of identification like a passport. A state driver’s license that does not contain the Real ID seal will no longer be accepted.

What is Real ID, anyway?

Real ID is a driver’s license or identification card that bears a special seal, which signifies that the bearer of the card has been screened and approved according to a standard set by the federal government, rather than just by the state issuing the license.

Why is this change taking place?

In the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks, the U.S. government realized that nearly all of the hijackers who boarded commercial planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a field in Shanksville, Penn., were carrying U.S. driver’s licenses and state IDs, and most of those documents had been obtained fraudulently.

In the years that followed, the federal government began an effort to tighten national standards for state-issued documentation, and in 2005, Congress passed the Real ID Act. The act sets minimum standards for driver’s licenses and other types of identification cards. Once the law kicks into gear, any traveler who wishes to use a driver’s license or state-issued ID at a T.S.A. checkpoint must make sure that it is Real ID-compliant.

“The findings of the 9/11 Commission clearly identified gaps in security management of state-level procured identity cards and driver’s licenses,” said Frank Harrison, the North America regional security director for World Travel Protection , a risk management company. “The Real ID Act provides a national framework of screening and approval to ensure consistency and integrity of programs. In other words, each state will maintain authority over their ID issuances, but they collectively will adhere to one standard of practice.”

The Real ID Act was initially set to be enforced in 2008 and has been delayed a number of times.

“It’s remarkable how long it has taken for this to come into effect,” said Scott Keyes, the founder of the travel platform Scott’s Cheap Flights . “It’s been decades in the making.”

How do I know if my license is a Real ID?

The easiest way to tell is just to look at it. Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses have a star, usually in gold or black. The stars look slightly different on each state’s licenses — in California, it sits on top of an image of a bear, which is the state animal.

A license that is not Real-ID compliant will not have a star in the corner, and some will also have the words “federal limits apply.”

Can I get a Real ID regardless of where I live?

Real ID-compliant licenses and identification cards are now being issued in all 50 states as well as the District of Columbia and the majority of U.S. territories. American Samoa is not yet issuing them.

What do I need to get a Real ID?

Each state has a different process for applying for a Real ID, so applicants should check requirements online. New Yorkers can visit a special Department of Motor Vehicles page detailing the process; many other states, including California and Texas, offer similar sites either through their D.M.V. or government portals. In most instances, you can get a Real ID by visiting your local D.M.V., either as part of a standard license renewal or by filling out a special application.

But no matter where you live, to apply for a Real ID or change your license over, you’ll need to provide a Social Security number, prove your address through documents like a utility bill or bank statement, and verify your identity through a handful of additional documents like a birth certificate or passport.

In many instances, there is no additional cost to receive a Real ID if you’re already renewing your license, although some states charge extra — in Pennsylvania, for example, it’s an additional $30 on top of the renewal fee.

If I don’t get a Real ID, can I still fly?

Yes. There are a number of other forms of identification that T.S.A. agents will accept for domestic air travel starting in May. These include a passport, a permanent residency card (also known as a Green Card), or the card for trusted traveler programs, including Global Entry and NEXUS , which allows pre-screened travelers to transit quickly across the United States-Canada border.

In addition, a handful of states — Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Washington and Vermont — offer Enhanced Driver’s Licenses , or E.D.L.s. Some travelers may prefer to opt for these over a Real ID because they can also be used at some land or sea border crossings. They provide proof of U.S. citizenship, much like a passport, and are equipped with a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip that can display biographic and biometric data on the owner, including facial image, gender, date of birth and citizenship status, to U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents.

E.D.L.s are Real ID-compliant, as well, although instead of a star, they have an American flag. The flag’s location varies by state.

E.D.L.s can be used by travelers crossing land and sea borders to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean, but they can’t be used in lieu of a passport if you’re traveling anywhere by air.

Do children need a Real ID?

No. The T.S.A. doesn’t require kids under the age of 18 to show any identification right now when they’re traveling domestically with an adult.

For international travel, children of all ages are required to carry passports and that will continue.

Can a Real ID be used as a replacement for any other form of identification, like a passport?

It can’t. For the vast majority of travelers, becoming Real ID-compliant will be a matter of simply updating their driver’s licenses. Real IDs cannot be used at any international border, including land crossings with Canada and Mexico, and they can’t be used for sea travel on a cruise, either. International travelers will still be required to carry a passport.

Should I be concerned about my personal privacy?

Maybe. Many organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union of New York, have decried the Real ID Act as a threat to personal privacy and an overstep of information gathering on the part of the federal government.

“A lot of the security and privacy concerns revolve around the fact that it’s pushing every state’s D.M.V. into a national database,” said Anaya Robinson, a senior policy strategist for the A.C.L.U. of Colorado. “If someone were to hack that singular database, they could get the personal information of anyone.”

For undocumented immigrants who seek out driver’s licenses so they can legally operate a motor vehicle, the shift to Real ID also presents a threat, Mr. Robinson added. “There’s a severe privacy concern in the immigration space of the federal government, Homeland Security and I.C.E. being able to access that information,” he said.

In addition to centralizing personal data like addresses and citizenship status into a federal database, the cards also carry a machine-readable zone that can be scanned for information on the card owner’s identity, which detractors say also presents a risk of identify theft.

But only 37 percent of Americans have a passport, according to estimates from the U.S. State Department, so if you plan to fly after May 2023 and don’t want to scramble with alternative documentation, you’ll need to update your driver’s license.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places for a Changed World for 2022.

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the American flag on Enhanced Driver’s Licenses. While the flag often appears in either the upper right corner or the bottom right corner of a driver’s license, in some cases it appears elsewhere on the license, depending on the state.

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the star that indicates a driver’s license is Real ID-compliant. While the star is usually in the top upper corner of the license, occasionally, as in the instance of Alabama licenses, it is not.

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

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D enver: The city is undergoing a rebirth , with a newly refreshed Union Station and the gradual reopening of the mile-long, pedestrian-friendly 16th Street Mall to go along with views of the snow-capped Front Range.

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Provincetown, Mass.:  Located at the tip of Cape Cod, P-town (as locals call it) has overlapping — and sometimes competing — identities : one of America’s oldest art colonies, nature preserve, thriving L.G.B.T.Q. resort and historic Portuguese fishing village.

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

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• At the airport

Security checkpoints

Checkpoint clearance.

For travel information including accepted forms of ID, clearing checkpoints, modified screening and more, visit the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) website.

TSA travel information Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other accepted ID, like a valid passport or U.S. military ID, to fly within the U.S. REAL ID-compliant cards generally have a star at the top. If you’re unsure, contact your state driver’s license agency on how to get a REAL ID-compliant card.

TSA won’t allow you to pass through security checkpoints at the airport if your ID doesn’t comply.

REAL ID FAQs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Expedite security screening, Customs and immigration

• Global Entry
• TSA PreCheck
• Mobile Passport Control Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Not flying, but need to get through security?

To escort people to their gate.

Air carrier authorization forms for escorting people (minors, the elderly, etc.) through security are available at the airport ticket counter.

Unaccompanied minors

Americans will need Real ID to travel in 2025: Here are the requirements

The U.S. is a year away from requiring Real ID.

The United States is less than a year out from the Department of Homeland Security's federal requirement for Real ID for domestic flights and entering federal facilities, and to help you get ahead -- and avoid a dreaded hourslong wait at the DMV -- "Good Morning America" has gathered all the essential details you need to ensure your identification is up to date.

What is a Real ID?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security previously delayed the implementation of Real ID several times over the past few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But as of this week, U.S. residents have under a year to obtain their soon-to-be federally required form of identification.

Here's what you need to know:

The federal Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses," the DHS states on its website .

The new rules set out which forms of identification may be used to board flights within the United States and to enter secure federal facilities such as military bases, federal courthouses and other federal facilities.

Applying for a Real ID requires proof of identity, proof of residency and a trip to your local DMV. See below for more on the full requirements and application process details.

All U.S. states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories are issuing Real IDs.

Click here for additional answers from DHS to some frequently asked questions about Real ID.

Real ID application requirements

Requirements are largely similar across the states, but as of 2021, according to DHS , states are no longer required to collect a social security document from a Real ID applicant. They still must collect and retain the number as part of the application process to verify that information with the Social Security Administration as currently required by the Real ID regulations.

"Not all states have applied this, so please check with your state driver's licensing agency to find the most up to date information," the DHS website states.

In California for example, residents can apply for a Real ID by filling out an application online and upload documents before visiting a DMV office with their uploaded documents to complete the application, which should only take about 15 minutes in person, depending on wait times.

MORE: Millions of Americans could be grounded from flying because of REAL ID deadline

Here's everything California residents would need to provide for the application:

Proof of identity: One original or certified document. For example, a valid passport or birth certificate. Legal name change document is required if name on proof of identity is different from the name on the other documents such as a marriage certificate or adoption papers.

Proofs of California residency: Two documents, paper copies. For example, a utility bill or bank statement.

Social Security number: Some exceptions may apply. Click here for additional details from the DMV REAL ID page.

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What is the latest deadline for real id.

Earlier this week marked one year before DHS begins enforcing the Real ID requirement on May 7, 2025.

Starting on that date, a Real ID or other federally approved identification will be required to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

Federal agencies including Transportation Security Administration may only accept state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards as identification for the purposes of accessing federal facilities -- including TSA airport security checkpoints -- if the license or card was issued by a Real ID compliant state in accordance with the Real ID security standards.

Enhanced Driver's Licenses issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards, according to DHS , and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.

What does Real ID look like?

The Real ID looks almost the same as a current state ID card or driver's license, but has a compliant star marking.

Some differences may vary by state, such as in California, where a small golden bear appears on the top right corner with the white star on the animal's left side.

If an ID says "federal limits apply," that person will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter federal facilities, such as military bases, federal courthouses, and other locations after the May 7, 2025, deadline.

Does Real ID replace a passport?

The Real ID does not replace a passport for international travel, however it ensures that travelers can fly domestic within the U.S. and access secure federal locations without additional documentation, according to the DMV.

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Facial Recognition and Digital Identity Solutions

Discover new technologies for a faster, easier travel experience..

Digital forms of identity enable the passenger to seamlessly and securely transmit identity information using facial recognition at select TSA checkpoints.

As TSA continues to integrate new technologies for a faster, easier travel experience, we've collaborated on several innovative digital identity initiatives, which work in place of a physical ID* or boarding pass. Be sure to follow the steps to set up and activate your selected digital identity solution before your trip so it's ready to present at select TSA checkpoints . Look for your preferred airline or device maker below to find out more!

Privacy and Facial Recognition Technology

Participation in TSA facial recognition technology is optional. All images and personal data are deleted after each transaction.* Images are not used for law enforcement, surveillance and not shared with other entities. Advise the officer if you do not want your photo taken. You will not lose your place in line.

*Retention: Photos and biometrics are deleted upon completion of the identity verification transaction. During periodic testing and development, TSA and DHS Office of Science and Technology (S&T) may retain passenger data for up to 24 months. When testing with S&T, signage at the checkpoint will notify passengers of the extended retention period and will allow passengers to opt-out of the live photo.

Mobile Driver's License and Digital Identification

Participation is optional.

If you choose to participate in TSA's use of these technologies, your picture will be taken and compared with your physical ID or digital ID using facial recognition technology. Your photo and biographic information will be deleted from these devices after your transaction.

To use a digital ID, add your state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or to your digital wallet.

Use Your Eligible Digital ID at TSA Checkpoint

• Scan your Digital ID QR code or tap your mobile device on the digital ID reader .
• A message on your mobile device will ask you to consent to share your digital ID information with TSA.
• Once you consent, the camera will take your picture.
• Follow the officer's instructions.

If you decide to opt out of facial matching, notify the officer.*

TSA, in partnership with Delta and United Airlines , continues to expand TSA PreCheck Touchless ID at select airports for Bag Drop and Checkpoint Security.

ID in Apple Wallet Hawaii  Present your Hawaii ID in Apple Wallet at select TSA checkpoints

Facial Recognition TSA uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of travelers on a voluntary basis.

TSA PreCheck

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Find An Airport Near You

Digital IDs allow passengers to securely and seamlessly share their identity information through facial recognition at select TSA checkpoints .

TSA Digital ID is Here

How to Use TSA Digital ID

TSA PreCheck® Touchless ID for TSA PreCheck Members

Participation is optional: must opt-in.

Opt-in to participate in the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program during check-in with participating airlines and airports. Store your participation preference, TSA PreCheck KTN and Passport Number in the airline's mobile app.

By opting in, you can use a dedicated TSA PreCheck Touchless ID line, and your identity can be verified without presenting an ID at bag drop, the security checkpoint, and/or at the boarding gate. All you need is your face. The TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program is exclusive to TSA PreCheck members. Enroll today!

Delta Airlines TSA PreCheck' bag drop and checkpoint

United Airlines TSA PreCheck® bag drop and checkpoint

No. Participation in the testing of biometric technology is voluntary. Passengers may notify a TSA officer if they do not wish to participate and instead go through the standard ID verification process.

Yes. Currently, all passengers must continue to have their physical IDs on hand. If a digital ID cannot be verified at the TSA security checkpoint, a passenger must use an acceptable physical identity document (e.g., driver’s license, passport) to proceed through the identity verification process.

TSA is committed to protecting passenger privacy and secures all personal data collected as part of our biometric efforts. TSA will continue to comply with DHS policies with respect to safeguarding PII throughout each phase of biometric solution development – from initial design to implementation – to protect passenger information. In addition to cybersecurity measures that ensure all data is protected while in transit and while at rest, biometric technology transforms passenger photos to templates that cannot be reverse-engineered to recreate the original image. Additionally, all capabilities TSA tests adhere to DHS and TSA cybersecurity requirements.

Consistent with the DHS Fair Information Practice Principles (FIPPs), TSA retains PII only for as long as is necessary to fulfill the specified purpose(s) of biometric technology pilots. DHS FIPPs and TSA’s PIAs provide guidance on matters such as transparency, specific use limitations, data minimization, and purpose specification for our biometric identity verification pilots. Additional information on data protection procedures for each test is available in TSA’s PIAs .

TSA exploration of biometric solutions is based on rigorous scientific study and analysis. We are aware of a variety of public concerns related to the accuracy of biometric technologies and take this issue seriously. Along with our federal partners, we are carefully studying biometric solutions in both laboratories and operational environments to proactively identify and mitigate performance issues up front. Accuracy and equity in biometric system performance is a key issue for TSA, and one we are carefully studying to ensure we understand the full benefits of this technology and make informed decisions to mitigate risks.

The acceptance of digital IDs has the potential to modernize checkpoint screening procedures and technologies to better serve the aviation security ecosystem, reduce points of contact for passengers, and pave the way for a more seamless travel experience. This effort is one of the steps TSA is taking under President Biden’s Executive Order on Transforming Customer Experience .

TSA publishes Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) to notify the public  about tests and additional information on privacy protections. TSA also notifies passengers using signage at the airport near dedicated test lanes. These signs notify the public that participation is voluntary.

The use of biometrics has the potential to automate the ID and boarding pass verification process for more efficient and secure screening.

Biometric recognition capabilities will improve the performance and security of TSA operations by increasing the accuracy and reliability of passenger identity verification by TSA. Biometrics can enable TSA to automate part of the current manual procedures and allow professional screening personnel to leverage their training and experience to focus more on alarms and error resolution.

No. TSA is testing biometric technology at the airport to improve and perhaps automate the identity verification portion of the process for passengers, not for law enforcement or immigration enforcement purposes. Additionally, TSA does not tolerate racial profiling. Profiling is not an effective way to perform security screening, and TSA personnel are trained to treat every passenger with dignity and respect.

A digital ID is an electronic representation of personally identifying information that may be used to verify the identity of a person. A mobile driver's license is a type of digital ID. It is a digital representation of the information contained on a state-issued physical driver’s license, stored on a mobile electronic device, such as a smartphone, and read electronically. A mobile driver’s license is similar to a credit card holder having a physical credit card and multiple card records in digital wallets that require biometric verification prior to each transaction. A digital ID may also be issued by a non-governmental entity based on information derived from governmental or non-governmental sources.

If TSA is unable to obtain a match through biometric technology as part of a test, the TSA officer will use standard passenger identity verification procedures.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the commercial aviation sector and on TSA’s aviation security mission. TSA must prioritize the health and safety of our officers and the traveling public. To promote social distancing and reduce contact between officers and passengers, we are exploring a self-service version of Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) that enables passengers to scan their own photo IDs for authentication and uses biometrics to verify passenger identity, eliminating a point of contact between officers and passengers. This updated version of CAT (known as CAT-2) biometrically verifies a passenger’s identity by taking a picture and comparing the passenger’s live image to the photo on their authenticated photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport). TSA first demonstrated this technology in August 2020 at DCA. TSA also conducted additional pilots to further test this technology, starting in March 2021 at DCA, PHX, IND, and MIA. TSA has since upgraded the CAT-2 units to feature a digital ID reader, updated user interface, and other enhancements including a new podium and space for additional processing power. Starting in March 2022, TSA began conducting field tests to assess these upgraded CAT-2 units.

TSA began testing the acceptance of digital IDs, including mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) from participating states, at select TSA PreCheck® checkpoints in early 2022. Checkpoints that are testing the acceptance of digital IDs will have signage posted. TSA is actively engaged with other organizations to continue developing capabilities, standardizing the digital ID ecosystem to ensure interoperability with TSA systems, and piloting digital ID technology at various airport checkpoints around the country.

 Participating Field Assessment Pilot Airports

• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
• Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
• Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)
• Gulfport Biloxi International Airport (GPT)
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
• Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Nashville International Airport (BNA) – Beginning 3/08
• Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Richmond International Airport (RIC)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)

Below is the current list of eligible digital IDs from state or private issuing authorities that may be accepted by TSA at the checkpoint for testing and evaluation purposes.

The REAL ID Modernization Act (2020) clarified that the REAL ID Act applies to state-issued mobile driver’s licenses and mobile identification cards (collectively "mDLs"). On April 19, 2021, DHS published a request for information to seek public comment to inform an upcoming rulemaking that will address security and privacy standards for the issuance of mDLs and enable federal agencies to accept these credentials for official purposes as defined in the REAL ID Act and regulation.

No. TSA will only be able to receive a passenger’s digital identification information at TSA checkpoints upon a passenger's consent. Passengers will control access to and use of the digital ID kept in their mobile device. Generally, TSA does not copy or store the digital ID, unless it is done in a limited testing environment for evaluation of the effectiveness of the pilot. In that instance, TSA will inform the passenger through PIAs, signage, and other means.

* Travelers must present alternative physical ID if requested by TSA.

** Participation in these pilots is optional. Your photo will be taken if you participate. During the evaluation periods, your photo and limited biographic information will be shared with DHS Science and Technology Directorate to evaluate the technology's effectiveness. Please notify a TSA officer if you do not wish to participate and would like to receive standard ID verification screening.

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DHS Announces Extension of REAL ID Full Enforcement Deadline

“Protecting the health, safety, and security of our communities is our top priority,” said Secretary Mayorkas. “As our country continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, extending the REAL ID full enforcement deadline will give states needed time to reopen their driver’s licensing operations and ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card.” 

Beginning May 3, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification at airport security checkpoints for domestic air travel.  

All 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and four of five U.S. territories covered by the REAL ID Act and related regulations are now compliant with REAL ID security standards and are issuing REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. However, many state licensing agencies have extended the deadline for renewing expiring licenses due to a widespread shift to appointment-only scheduling protocols during the pandemic that has significantly limited states’ capacity to issue REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. As a result, only 43 percent of all state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards are currently REAL ID-compliant.  DHS and various states also need time to implement requirements mandated by the REAL ID Modernization Act, including changes that will streamline processing by allowing the electronic submission of certain documents.

DHS continues to work closely with all U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories to implement REAL ID Act requirements. For more information on REAL ID, visit www.dhs.gov/real-id .

• Secretary of Homeland Security
• Transportation Security
• REAL ID Act of 2005
• Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Deadline: May 7, 2025