real id travel date

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The REAL ID Act: What It Means, State by State Requirements, and Updates [2024]

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

87 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 36 U.S. States Visited: 31

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

82 Published Articles 466 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 4 U.S. States Visited: 23

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

31 Published Articles 3100 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

What Is the REAL ID Act?

What does a real id look like, what does real id mean for me, what the real id act is not, common reasons to obtain a real id, reasons you may not need a real id, who can get a real id, what if my state is real id-compliant, which states require real id to fly, common problems with obtaining a real id, can i transfer my real id between states, is real id mandatory to fly, potential state revenue, what about minors under 18, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

You may have noticed Transportation Security Administration signs posted at airport security checkpoints warning travelers about upcoming ID requirement changes. So what exactly are these changes, and what do you need to do to be ready?

We’ll break down exactly how REAL ID works — including what the REAL ID Act means for you and how you travel.

Formulated in the wake of September 11 and passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act was passed to “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.”

The act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and it prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.

It was aimed at thwarting airline terrorism by increasing requirements to obtain documents that grant access to domestic planes.

State agencies that issue licenses and identification cards, like the Department of Motor Vehicles, require more paperwork regarding proof of residency and Social Security numbers to obtain standard licenses under the new act.

The cards also use new technology, making them much more difficult to forge.

Due to various roadblocks and the COVID-19 pandemic, it will have taken the federal government nearly 20 years to implement the act fully — a gradual process that has been met by some confusion as each state has a different status. The original date of compliance was October 1, 2020. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the deadline was first delayed to October 1, 2021, then to May 3, 2023, and now to May 7, 2025. All states must comply by May 7, 2025 .

We know a lot of travelers are concerned that they will lose the ability to fly, drive, or vote as a result of the REAL ID Act, but this isn’t the case. You can continue to use your regular license or identification to drive and vote without obtaining a REAL ID.

The change will only impact domestic travel in the U.S. and you will either need to provide an alternate form of TSA-approved ID or obtain a REAL ID.

Bottom Line: To fly internationally, you will always need your passport.

In most states, there is a gold or black star on the front of the REAL ID license that signifies compliance. If you see one of these stars, then you’re good to go.

There are 5 states — Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington — that issue enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs). These are a form of REAL ID. These EDLs allow land and sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont offer the EDL as an option. Washington only issues EDLs.

Hot Tip:  Enhanced IDs aren’t a substitute for passports for air travel, only land or sea travel.

An easy way to know your card is not compliant is if it says “Not for Federal Identification,” “Federal Limits Apply,” or “Not for Real ID Act Purposes.”

Airports are considered federal facilities and this act affects your ability to enter them and board your flight.

Starting May 7, 2025, the REAL ID Act takes full effect. From this date, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or ID or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport or passport card to access federal facilities — including boarding commercial aircraft.

Most states and territories have already begun issuing new licenses. You will have until May 7, 2025, to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license. Just check your license to be sure.

If your ID is REAL ID-compliant, there will be a star in the top right corner. Many drivers may not realize they already have a compliant ID since some states have issued them for many years.

Bottom Line: If you are not in compliance with the REAL ID Act, you will need to show an alternative form of acceptable identification for domestic air travel to board your flight starting on May 7, 2025.

A REAL ID is NOT a substitute for a passport for international travel . This means you can’t use a REAL ID to enter Canada or Mexico by land or any international travel destination. The only exception to this is if you have an enhanced driver’s license — more on this below!

There are several other requirements that REAL ID doesn’t affect.

REAL ID requirements don’t apply to:

• Voting or registering to vote
• Applying for or receiving federal benefits
• Being licensed by a state to drive or rent a car
• Entering federal facilities that do not require identification (including a defendant’s access to court proceedings, national parks, and Social Security offices)
• Accessing health- or life-preserving services (including hospitals and health clinics)
• Participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigation
• The ability to purchase alcohol, cash checks, or gamble

You can also continue to use your standard driver’s license or ID card for other U.S. travel including driving in and across state lines or riding a train.

Who Needs a REAL ID?

In most instances, obtaining a REAL ID isn’t required, but there are many benefits to obtaining a REAL ID. Here is a breakdown of some common reasons to consider getting a REAL ID and a few reasons why you might not need one.

• You want to fly with only your state-issued ID
• You don’t have a passport or another TSA-approved ID (listed below)
• You need to visit a secure federal facility, such as a military base, and don’t have a military ID
• You are under 18 years old
• You only need your ID for purposes of identification (ie. to vote, serve on a jury, or drive)
• You don’t mind bringing another TSA-approved ID (like a passport) along when you fly starting on May 7, 2025

To qualify for a REAL ID-compliant ID or license, you must fall under one of the following categories:

• U.S. citizen or national
• U.S. lawful permanent resident or lawful temporary resident (including green card holders)
• Have conditional permanent resident status in the U.S. (including individuals with valid work permits, like H1B visas)
• Have an approved asylum application or entered under refugee status
• Have a valid, unexpired nonimmigrant visa
• Have a pending application for asylum
• Have a pending or approved temporary protected status
• Have an approved deferred action status (including DACA)
• Have a pending application for adjustment of status to that of lawful permanent or conditional resident

Specifically, for undocumented immigrants, the DHS website notes that driver’s licenses and identification cards can still be issued by the state, but not REAL IDs: “Some states currently issue noncompliant cards to undocumented individuals. Noncompliant cards must clearly state on their face that they are not acceptable for REAL ID purposes and must use a unique design or color to differentiate them from compliant cards.”

Hot Tip: Still not sure? Check DHS’s interactive tool to check if you are “REAL ID Ready”.

REAL ID by State

Since licenses are issued at the state level, each process is slightly different. But the good news is that all states are in compliance with the REAL ID Act. This just means that each state and territory is now able to provide REAL IDs.

In a move aimed to help more people receive their REAL IDs before the May 7, 2025, deadline, the DHS passed the REAL ID Modernization Act that allows you to submit your identification documents electronically . This includes information such as a birth certificate and passport.

Applicants will still need to bring the required documents in person so they can be compared to the electronic submissions. This means that to get a REAL ID-compliant license, you must still physically go to a DMV office.

Bottom Line: States will not send you a REAL ID-compliant license automatically if you renew your license online. While most states are issuing compliant IDs, individuals may still choose not to upgrade their licenses.

You will be able to use your state-issued ID at airports through May 7, 2025. After May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (or another TSA-approved ID) to fly — both domestically and internationally.

All states issue REAL ID-compliant IDs, but none require a REAL ID. You can still fly as long as you have a TSA-approved form of ID. When comparing a REAL ID to a state ID, they can be the same form of identification.

Steps To Take To Get a Compliant REAL ID

If you’ve decided you’d like to get a REAL ID, you’ll definitely want to know where to go to get a REAL ID, what documents to bring, and how much the REAL ID costs.

Step 1: Make an appointment to visit a REAL ID at a DMV field office near you. Some offices are offering special hours or days for those trying to get a REAL ID before May 7, 2025. You can also get a REAL ID without an appointment, but this isn’t recommended as wait times at your local office can be incredibly long.

Here are the links to all of the local offices to help you get started with this process.

Step 2: On the day of your appointment, ensure you bring all the necessary documents (even if you have submitted documents online beforehand).

What Real ID Documents Do I Need?

• Proof of identity, such as a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, employment authorization document, permanent resident card, or foreign passport with an approved form I-94
• Proof of your Social Security number, such as an SSN card, W-2, or paystub with full SSN
• At least 2 proof of residency documents, such as a rental or lease agreement, mortgage bill, utility bill or employment, medical, or school document
• If applicable, an original or certified copy of a name change document, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, may be required

If you have any issues or concerns with obtaining any of the documents or seeing if an item will be accepted, we suggest checking directly with your local DMV.

Step 3: Pay the fee for the license. This will vary by state but is generally less than $60. Check our graphic under “How Much Does a REAL ID Cost?” below for specific costs.

There are a lot of questions about what is and isn’t an appropriate document to bring along with you to obtain a REAL ID. Issues like not having a mailing address, having a name change, or having a temporary or expired license are common problems. Also, getting a REAL ID without key documents such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or passport can be a challenge.

If you’re unsure, we always recommend reaching out to your state’s license-issuing office directly before you head to your appointment!

Some states, like California, offer a l ist of documents that are accepted for each category. This is a good place to start when gathering your documents. Look for notes about when copies or originals are necessary and read recommendations for alternatives if you don’t have the recommended residency documents or if you use a P.O. Box.

No, you can’t transfer your REAL ID between states. Unfortunately, federal requirements don’t allow for the transfer of a REAL ID license between states. Each state is required to view and image all documentation upon original issuance in that state.

This means that when you move, you will need to go in person to present the same documentation such as a U.S. birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, and 2 proofs of residence address, as well as meet all of your new state’s issuance requirements.

On a positive note, REAL ID licenses from other states can typically be used like any other out-of-state driver’s license to waive behind-the-wheel driving tests.

As of May 2022, an estimated 137 million Americans held REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, passport cards, military IDs, and Global Entry cards, all of which qualify as REAL ID-compliant identification. But, according to the most recent reports from the government , that is only 49% of Americans!

This means that you don’t have to upgrade your license to board your flight, but you will have to use an alternative (TSA-approved) form of ID. TSA currently accepts several other forms of identity documents:

As you can see, the most common alternatives to a REAL ID is a U.S. passport or a U.S. passport card .

Other less common items are DHS Trusted Traveler cards ( Global Entry , NEXUS , SENTRI , FAST), permanent resident cards, Department of Defense IDs, enhanced driver’s licenses, and federally recognized tribal-issued photo IDs.

For more information on acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please see  TSA’s website . However, it should be noted that if on or after May 7, 2025, you cannot provide an acceptable form of identification, you will not be permitted through the security checkpoint to board your flight.

How Much Does a REAL ID Cost?

REAL ID prices vary significantly throughout the country. Prices are set by the state, along with the process for getting a REAL ID. Below is a map with information on the cost and process in each state.

We were interested in estimating just how much revenue states might be bringing in due to the new REAL IDs. For this, we used the cost from the above numbers and multiplied them by the estimated number of drivers in each state, according to information from the Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration.

This estimation is based on what we would consider the max possible revenue (if every driver in each state got a new license for the REAL ID Act). Because the new IDs are not mandatory, we understand that not everyone may get one. However, this is an approximation of revenue.

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the U.S. The companion will need acceptable identification, though.

Airlines may demand proof of the child’s age, such as a birth certificate or passport, but these requirements aren’t regulated by TSA. Contact the airline for more information.

Now is the time to make sure you know the requirements to be REAL ID-compliant.

In some states, it may take a few weeks or longer to get an appointment at your local DMV. By taking steps towards compliance now, you can avoid the last-minute rush and be ready to go long before May 7, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the real id card.

A REAL ID is a form of identification that meets increased security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Travelers will be required to provide either a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of identification to fly after May 7, 2025.

Which states have REAL ID?

Currently, all states are either in compliance with the REAL ID Act or have an extension in place. This means that they are currently able to issue REAL IDs.

While all states are issuing REAL IDs, you can still get a non-REAL ID license as well. Be sure you know what you are getting when you show up!

Do you need a REAL ID to fly?

A REAL ID is a valid form of identification you can use to fly. However, there are many other TSA-approved forms of identification that are also acceptable. You will still need your U.S. passport to travel internationally.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly domestic?

No, a REAL ID isn’t required to fly within the United States. However, starting on May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of identification to fly within the U.S.

Be sure to check out our graphic above for other documents that will be accepted at airport security if you don’t have a REAL ID.

Will REAL ID work as a passport?

If you are traveling internationally, you still need your U.S. passport, as a REAL ID does not replace your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need 1 valid form of identification — either your REAL ID or your passport, not both.

What documents are needed for a REAL ID?

States require you to go to your local DMV and present 1) proof of identity, 2) proof of your Social Security number, 3) 2 proof of residency documents, and 4) if applicable, a proof of name change document.

See our checklist above for examples of each of these items as well as more information on how to obtain a REAL ID.

Do my kids need a REAL ID?

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the U.S. So as long as you have your documents in order, kids will not need a REAL ID.

What is the purpose of REAL ID?

According to the DHS, the purpose of the REAL ID Act “is to make our identity documents more consistent and secure.” It provides a set of standards for the issuance of driver’s licenses and other identity documents.

Can I fly with my regular ID?

You can fly with your regular ID until May 7, 2025. Following that date, you will either need a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of ID.

How long do REAL IDs last?

This varies by state. However, REAL IDs have the same validity as other state-issued driver’s licenses. This is typically anywhere from 3 to 8 years depending on your state and age. Here is a comprehensive list  by state and age.

Is the REAL ID like a driver's license?

A REAL ID can be the same document as your driver’s license. But not all driver’s licenses are REAL IDs.

We know this can be complicated, but a REAL ID driver’s license has additional technology, making it harder to forge. In addition, you must provide additional verification documents (such as multiple forms of ID and residence proof) to get a REAL ID.

Can a REAL ID be used as a passport?

A REAL ID cannot be used for international travel. You must still have your passport to travel internationally.

What is REAL ID vs. enhanced ID?

An enhanced ID is a type of REAL ID for U.S. citizens who live in Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington. Canadian citizens residing in British Columbia and Manitoba are eligible for EDLs.

In addition to serving as a driver’s license, enhanced IDs are a convenient way to get into Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry (not by air).

What is a REAL ID vs. a passport card?

A passport card can be used for entering the U.S. at land border crossings and sea ports of entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. You can also use it to fly domestically as an alternative to a REAL ID, but not for any international flights.

You still need a driver’s license to drive a motor vehicle.

What does "not for Real ID Act purposes" mean?

“Not for Real ID Act purposes” means that the ID can’t be used for identification for a domestic flight (from May 7, 2025) or to enter a federal facility such as a military base.

Was this page helpful?

About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

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.

Using REAL ID and other ID options to board a plane

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: December 18, 2023

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

The Real ID Deadline Is in May 2025—Here's How to Get Yours in Time

Can you fly without a Real ID? Find out if your license complies, how to get one in time, and more with our Real ID deadline travel tips.

Maggie Seaver is the digital health and wellness editor at Real Simple, with seven years of experience writing lifestyle and wellness content. She spends her days writing and editing stories about sleep, mental health, fitness, preventive health, nutrition, personal development, relationships, healthy habits, and beyond. She loves demystifying complicated health topics, debunking wellness fads, and sharing practical, science-backed solutions for healthy living.

The deadline to swap your old license for a Real ID—the new, secure form of self-identification that will allow U.S. residents to travel domestically by airplane—has officially been extended to May 7, 2025, according to an announcement by the Department of Homeland Security . The original deadline to secure a Real ID for travel was October 1, 2020, then October 1, 2021, and then extended again to May 3, 2023. Since the process requires applicants to visit the DMV in person, the latest extension allows states additional time to issue IDs to everyone who needs the update.

"This extension will give states needed time to ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card," said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas in a statement on December 5, 2022. "DHS will also use this time to implement innovations to make the process more efficient and accessible. We will continue to ensure that the American public can travel safely."

What does that mean for travelers? Starting May 7, 2025, the ID options that many Americans have been using (such as their standard driver's license or state photo ID card) at TSA security checkpoints and to board a plane will no longer be valid forms of identification for domestic air travel. Instead, jet-setters 18 years and older need to acquire and present "a Real ID–compliant driver's license or identification card, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification" to get through security and fly domestically.

Here to walk through everything you need to know, including the best way to get a Real ID and anticipated travel restrictions for anyone who hasn't obtained theirs by the 2025 deadline, is travel industry expert Werner G. Kunz, co-CEO of Fareportal, the travel tech company behind global travel brands like CheapOair and OneTravel .

Why You Need a Real ID in the First Place

Per the 9/11 Commission's recommendation, Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005. As Kunz explains, it establishes additional security standards for identification for U.S. residents traveling by air, and prevents all federal agencies from accepting any ID that doesn't meet the new requirements. "The idea is to amplify national safety and help make identity theft more difficult," Kunz says.

The Real ID will fully replace your current ID and serve all the same purposes. However, Kunz says for non-travelers in some states, the standard ID will still be valid for all other age-related purposes, including driving, voting, and buying alcohol. "It's worth noting that some states, such as Maryland, are initiating a permanent transition to Real ID," Kunz adds. If unsure about what's valid and where contact your state legislation office for clarification.

Keep in mind that the Real ID is only valid for domestic travel in the U.S., and that a passport or passport card is still required for all international travel .

It Requires an In-Person Trip to the DMV

Per the DHS, all 50 U.S. states, D.C., 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 issuing REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards."

In every state that's compliant to issue Real IDs, the DMV is the only place to obtain one—and you do have to go in person. Hopefully, the deadline extension provides you and your local DMV enough time to plan accordingly and make appointments.

How to Get One as Efficiently as Possible

Kunz says while there's no mail-in option to obtain a Real ID, there are a few ways to expedite the process.

One simple thing you can do to make your life easier is book an appointment; the DMV will already have long lines and wait times from others hoping to upgrade their ID. Another common-sense tip Kunz cannot stress enough: Come prepared with all the correct documentation.

Here's a list of all physical documents to bring with you to the DMV:

• Passport or birth certificate—no photocopies!
• Social Security (SS) card OR a document that shows your SS number (like a W-2 form)
• Two documents proving your residency and street address (such as utility bills)
• A form of payment: Cash, check, or a debit card are all acceptable ("Please keep in mind that the fee could vary from state to state but will almost certainly be under $50," Kunz says.)
• Certain states may require additional materials, so check your state DMV website for details.

Finally, see if you can submit your necessary documents online before heading to the DMV. The Department of Homeland Security has allowed some states to accept required documents for Real ID applications digitally, ahead of people's in-person interviews. Applicants who submit their docs digitally still need to go to the DMV in person, but this capability can hopefully speed up the process significantly.

You Might Already Have a Real ID—Here's How to Check

Good news for some: There's a chance you already have a Real ID and don't realize it, so you can spare a trip to the DMV. How can you tell if your current ID is an eligible Real ID?

"If your license or non-drivers ID has a gold or black star on the top right corner, you're all set," Kunz says. "Unfortunately, a small number of states, including Hawaii, Ohio, Utah, and Tennessee, issued compliant IDs without the star, so it's best to contact your state legislation office if you're unsure."

Potential Travel Restrictions If You Don't Have a Real ID Before May 7, 2025

"For a large majority, those who are not Real ID compliant by the deadline will not be able to board a commercial aircraft for domestic travel," Kunz explains. "States such as Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, and New York offer enhanced driver's licenses that can be used in lieu of a Real ID. Other forms of acceptable ID will include a passport or passport card."

For a complete list of acceptable forms of ID, including Real ID–compliant driver's licenses, visit the TSA identification webpage .

Don't Put It Off

No one enjoys a trip to the DMV—but don't let this task burn a hole in your to-do list, making you anxious and wanting to keep procrastinating.

"My main piece of advice is to start the process ASAP," Kunz says. "I would also strongly recommend researching the specific requirements in your state, as they can differ. It's always best to be over prepared than surprised when dealing with any sort of identification process."

Just get it done—you'll thank yourself later.

Related Articles

BREAKING: Judge admonishes Trump after he appears to speak during questioning of a prospective juror in his hush money trial

Real ID deadline for air travel extended another two years

The Department of Homeland Security announced Monday that it is extending the deadline to require Real ID-compliant identification for air travelers, pushing the start date from May 3, 2023, to May 7, 2025.

The extension will give states more time to ensure residents have driver's licenses and identification cards that comply with enhanced security standards under the Real ID Act. Efforts to provide those IDs have been "significantly hindered by state driver’s licensing agencies having to work through the backlogs created by the pandemic," DHS said in a press release. 

The deadline for the new IDs has already been extended previously. While time extensions in the past were caused by a lack of full state compliance with the requirements for issuing the more secure driver’s licenses, the deadline was previously pushed from October 2021 to this coming May, officials said at the time, because the pandemic had made it harder for people to get into state motor vehicle departments to obtain the new identifications.

When the enforcement deadline finally begins in spring of 2025, the Transportation Security Administration will no longer be able to accept non-compliant identifications from travelers ages 18 or older for domestic flights, the department said.

DHS is working with states to meet the requirements and "Will also use this time to implement innovations to make the process more efficient and accessible,"  Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in the release. 

Congress passed the new standards as part of the Real ID Act in 2005, based on a recommendation of the 9/11 Commission. The enhanced security standards for state-issued identification cards and driver's licenses aim to make IDs harder to counterfeit and allow records checks.

Colbi Edmonds is a Politics intern for NBC News.

• Side Hustles
• Power Players
• Young Success
• Save and Invest
• Become Debt-Free
• Land the Job
• Closing the Gap
• Science of Success
• Pop Culture and Media
• Psychology and Relationships
• Health and Wellness
• Real Estate
• Most Popular

Related Stories

• Earn Tax pro shares how to do your taxes and   why they don't teach you in school
• Food, Travel and Tech These are the 10 most welcoming cities   for 2024—only 1 is in the U.S.
• Save and Invest Tax season is here—how to file   your 2023 tax return for free
• Earn You might have extra time to file your   tax return—here's who qualifies
• Food, Travel and Tech This airline launched a mystery   flight—over 1,000 people signed up

Yes, you need a Real ID to fly domestically. Here's what to know as the 2023 deadline approaches

Beginning May, 3 2023, Americans over the age of 18 will need a Real ID-compliant license to fly domestically. 

A standard state ID or driver's license that is not the new security-enhanced form of identification will no longer be sufficient to board flights. You can use a passport or Green Card to travel domestically if you don't have a Real ID-compliant drivers license.  

The requirement was initially slated to begin way back in 2008 but has been delayed for a variety of reasons, including because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Because government offices have been operating at a slower pace during the last three years, only about 43% of state-issued licenses are Real ID-compliant, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement in April . 

In order to get one you'll need a bit more documentation than is required for a regular license and you might have to pay a higher fee, too.

Here's what to know about the Real ID and how to get yours before the deadline.

What is a Real ID? 

Real ID-compliant licenses were designed to be a bit harder to obtain than standard licenses.

Requiring one to fly is part of the Real ID Act, a measure passed in 2005 to increase national security after September 11. 

Nearly all the hijackers during the attacks obtained US licenses fraudulently or by using fraudulent documents. The law is meant to tighten national standards to close this loophole. 

You might already have a Real ID as many states have been administering them for years. In Colorado, for example, most drivers licenses have been Real-ID compliant since 2012 . 

To tell if you already have one, just look at your current license. If there's a star in the right-hand corner, your ID is Real ID-compliant.

How do I get a Real ID? 

In most states you will have to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles to switch your ID over. To obtain it you will need to provide the following at the DMV: 

• Your social security card.
• Proof of address. This is often found on bank statements, pay stubs, and utility bills.
• Verification of your name and date of birth. You can use your passport or birth certificate.

You can find a list of exactly what you need to bring on your state's DMV site. 

Does it cost extra to get a Real ID? 

In most states a Real ID will not cost any more than a license. But some states are charging a fee.

In Pennsylvania, for example, there is an additional, one-time fee of $30.  

You'll be able to find additional information about cost on your state's DMV site.

Sign up now:  Get smarter about your money and career with our weekly newsletter

Don't miss:

These are the top 10 best and worst places to live in the world—and you won't find the U.S. on either list

These are the top 10 most bike-friendly cities in the world – San Francisco and Portland didn't make the list

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

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

Still Haven't Got Your Real ID? Here's the Deadline to Have It When Flying

Domestic flights will require a Real ID or a passport to fly. Here's what you need to know.

In 2022, the Department of Homeland Security extended the deadline for enforcing the Real ID Act again to give residents more time to obtain a compliant license or identification.

The deadline for getting a Real ID has been postponed several times in the past few years, with the first slated deadline for 2020. After multiple extensions, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the deadline has finally been set for May 7, 2025 . That means you have just over one year to schedule an appointment to get a Real ID-compliant license or identification card.

The  Real ID Act , which enforces consistent and secure standards for identification used in air travel and entering federal facilities, was passed in 2007. Once it's in place, US residents over 18 will need to present a Real ID-enhanced driver's license or another federally approved identification -- like a passport -- to fly domestically.

Here's everything you need to know about Real ID, including where to apply, what you'll need to bring and what happens if you don't have one after the 2025 deadline. For more on travel regulations, find out how to renew your passport online  and the  steps to take if your flight is delayed or canceled .

What is Real ID?

Real IDs won't be required at airport security until 2025.

Essentially, Real ID is an enhanced version of your standard state driver's license or identification card, intended to help authorities crack down on terrorism and identity fraud.

Today, all 50 states and the District of Columbia are complying with Real ID standards, DHS said. If you recently renewed your driver's license it's likely already compliant. If it's been a few years, you'll probably have to get it updated.

Real ID-approved licenses will have one of these stars in the upper-right corner.

You can tell by looking at your license: If there is a gold, black or white star in the upper-right corner, you have a Real ID. (There are some minor variations -- California places a white star over the state's bear logo, while Maine puts it in an outline of the state.)

What do I need to get a Real ID card?

An example of a driver's license with a Real ID logo.

Whatever state agency issued your driver's license is responsible for distributing Real IDs. The paperwork required will vary but typically it includes proof of identity and status as a US resident or citizen, proof of your Social Security number and multiple proofs of your current address. Originals or hard copies of documentation -- birth certificate, Social Security card, US passport -- are required, with photocopies and screenshots not accepted. Check your state's driver's licensing agency website for more specifics.

After you apply, you should receive a temporary paper ID until your Real ID-compliant license arrives in the mail about three or four weeks later.

With a few exceptions, the cost of getting a Real ID-compliant license is the same as renewing your license or non-driving identification card. 

What happens once the Real ID Act is enforced? 

Beginning in May 2025 -- unless the deadline is extended again -- federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will only accept Real ID-approved licenses and identification cards "for purposes of accessing federal facilities," according to DHS. 

That includes airport security checkpoints.

Without one, US adults will have to show a valid passport, even to fly domestically, or one of these other forms of ID :

• US Department of Defense ID
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
• Enhanced Driver's License , issued by  Michigan ,  Minnesota ,  New York ,  Vermont  and  Washington state  

Not having a Real ID-compliant license will not affect other uses of a driver's license, including verifying an individual's ability to operate a vehicle or purchase alcohol, firearms or tobacco.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

You’ve Got to Be Kidding! Real ID Deadline for Domestic Fliers Is Extended. Again.

After years of delays, security-enhanced driver’s licenses and other updated identification requirements were set to be mandatory next spring. Now the government is giving you another two years.

By Debra Kamin

The 2005 Real ID Act , which mandates that U.S. travelers must carry more than a standard driver’s license to board a domestic flight, was set to go into effect on May 3, 2023 . But on Monday, after some 15 years of delays, the Department of Homeland Security pushed the deadline for enforcement by an additional 24 months. Travelers now have until May 7, 2025, to update their documents.

The Real ID Act is a post-Sept. 11 law that requires U.S. travelers flying within the United States to show Transportation Security Administration agents either a security-enhanced driver’s license or another T.S.A.-approved form of identification like a passport. When the act eventually goes into effect, a state driver’s license that does not contain a Real ID seal will no longer be accepted at airport security checkpoints across the country.

Congress passed the Real ID Act after finding that nearly all of the hijackers who boarded commercial planes on Sept. 11, 2001, were carrying U.S. driver’s licenses and state IDs, and that most of those documents had been obtained fraudulently. The act, which sets minimum standards for driver’s licenses and other types of identification cards, was initially intended to take effect in 2008. It has been extended multiple times, including twice during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The most recent rollout has been marked by confusion. While Real IDs show the applicant has been screened and approved by federal standards, the cards are issued by individual states, U.S. territories (except for American Samoa, which is under review) and the District of Columbia. Processes for applying vary from state to state, and the physical look of the card varies, too: Real ID cards are marked by a star, but its placement is inconsistent.

In some states, including New York, Michigan and Minnesota, residents have the alternative option to apply for an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is Real ID-compliant but is marked not by a star but a flag. Unlike Real IDs, E.D.L.s can also be used for travel to and from the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries in lieu of a passport.

And in Washington State, residents can only apply for an E.D.L. The standard Real ID license isn’t available at all.

This time around, it seemed the deadline for May 3, 2023, was going to stick, and state motor vehicle departments rolled out marketing campaigns to encourage residents to change their documents in time. In many states, the switch to Real IDs requires a fee.

But this month, federal authorities determined that not enough citizens were ready for the change, said Dan Velez, the New England spokesman for the T.S.A., and made the decision to extend the deadline two more years.

“Real ID progress over the past two years has been significantly hindered by state driver’s licensing agencies,” Mr. Velez said. “The extension is necessary to give states the needed time to ensure their residents obtain a Real ID-compliant license or identification card.”

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.

Open Up Your World

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

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Real ID deadline again extended, pushed to 2025

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

Aiming to improve security and minimize fraud in the aftermath of 9/11, especially among airline travelers, Congress in 2005 passed the Real ID Act to set federal standards for identification cards.

But 17 years later, the Real ID requirement has been delayed yet again — until 2025 — following years of funding challenges , concerns about travel interruptions and pandemic backlogs, creating repeated setbacks for the more-standardized cards.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security on Monday pushed the date by which travelers will need the new federally compliant identification card for domestic flights to May 7, 2025.

The previous deadline was May 3, 2023 .

The agency had already extended its enforcement date at least three times since the planned implementation date for the law was initially announced for October 2020.

The 24-month extension will address “the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ability to obtain a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card” after that process was “significantly hindered” by processing backlogs from the pandemic, according to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security. Many states’ agencies extended expiration dates of driver’s licenses and identification cards due to the pandemic or shifted to appointment-only availability, the department said, which affected operations.

Just over half of all Americans with a license or identification card have obtained one that is Real ID-compliant, according to a federal review of state-provided data. Only in the last two years did all states begin issuing approved Real IDs, resolving what had long been another roadblock for the identification system.

In California, the number of people with Real IDs has grown by more than 5 million from almost two years ago . As of Monday, about 14.8 million Californians had received a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, about 43% of the total driver’s licenses and identification cards issued this year, according to the latest data from the state Department of Motor Vehicles.

DMV officials noted that some people could have a driver’s license that’s not federally compliant and decide to get a Real ID identification card, creating overlap in the numbers.

Some travelers may decide to forgo a Real ID if they have another form of identification accepted by the Transportation Security Administration , such as a passport.

Real ID-compliant licenses are marked by a star on the top of the card. In California, upgraded cards also have a gold bear in the upper right corner.

Travel & Experiences

Californians, here’s how to get your Real ID license without a DMV visit

The state partners with the Auto Club of Southern California to ease access.

July 14, 2021

“This extension will give states needed time to ensure their residents can obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas said in a statement Monday. “DHS will also use this time to implement innovations to make the process more efficient and accessible.”

Under the latest update, every traveler age 18 or older will need a Real ID — or another form of federally compliant identification — to get through airport security checkpoints for domestic travel beginning May 7, 2025.

Leaders in the $1.1-trillion travel industry have voiced concern over the past few years of losses if Americans are unable to board planes because they lack Real ID licenses. The U.S. Travel Assn. on Monday praised the Department of Homeland Security for its latest delay of enforcement, calling it the “right decision.”

“U.S. Travel appreciates DHS leadership for recognizing that with 100 million Americans still lacking a Real ID, now is not the time to create significant travel disruptions,” Tori Emerson Barnes, the trade group’s executive vice president of public affairs and policy, said in a statement. “This delay helps to give travelers the time necessary to get the credential needed to fly domestically.”

In May, 137 million Real IDs had been issued across the U.S., making up about 49% of identification cards in circulation, according to the travel association. Compliance was increasing by about half a percent per month, the association said. More recent numbers weren’t immediately available.

Real ID is not required for drivers, and air passengers still need a passport to travel internationally.

In California, a Real ID costs $39, the same price as a driver’s license that is not federally compliant.

More to Read

Travelers can get a passport quicker. An L.A. post office can help Sunday at passport fair

Dec. 2, 2023

Californians can now carry driver’s licenses on their phone as part of pilot program

Sept. 3, 2023

Need a new or renewed U.S. passport? Get ready to wait

Aug. 2, 2023

Start your day right

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Grace Toohey is a reporter at the Los Angeles Times covering breaking news for the Fast Break Desk. Before joining the newsroom in 2022, she covered criminal justice issues at the Orlando Sentinel and the Advocate in Baton Rouge. Toohey is a Maryland native and proud Terp.

More From the Los Angeles Times

L.A. to pay $9.5 million to settle lawsuit over ‘dangerously designed’ intersection

April 9, 2024

Gas prices are on the rise. Here’s how to find the cheapest options

Climate & Environment

An old rail track in Northern California could become a 300-mile hiking trail

April 6, 2024

Editorial: Disneyland’s gas-fueled Autopia cars showcase the worst of Todayland. EVs are a good start

April 5, 2024

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

New York residents reminded to get their REAL ID to board an airplane

NEW YORK —  The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended the REAL ID enforcement date by 24 months, from May 3, 2023, to May 7, 2025, giving travelers additional time to ensure they have driver’s licenses or identification cards that meet the security standards established by the REAL ID Act. As required by the law, following the enforcement deadline, federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will be prohibited from accepting driver’s licenses and identification cards that do not meet these federal standards. 

The extension is necessary, in part, to address the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ability to obtain a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card. REAL ID progress over the past two years has been significantly hindered by state driver’s licensing agencies having to work through the backlogs created by the pandemic. Many of these agencies took various steps in response to the pandemic including automatically extending the expiration dates of driver’s licenses and identification cards and shifting operations to appointment only.

Travelers who want to board an airplane will need a star or flag on their New York state driver’s license, indicating that it is a REAL ID-compliant credential or they will need another form of approved identification to board their flight or enter a secure federal facility. New York’s REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and ID cards have a star inside a black circle, in the upper right corner. Additionally, New York state enhanced IDs have a flag in the corner and they also are valid for boarding a flight.

Travelers are not required to get a state-issued REAL ID, however, starting May 2025, if a traveler typically uses their driver’s license or non-driver ID to fly within the United States then they probably want a New York enhanced license or a REAL ID. Otherwise they will need to use a valid U.S. passport or another federally approved valid form of identification when they walk up to the TSA document checking podium. The consequence for not having a valid ID is that an individual won’t be permitted to board their flight.

REAL ID is a “coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards,” said Robert Duffy, TSA Federal Security Director for LaGuardia, Westchester, Stewart and Long Island/MacArthur airports in the New York City region. “The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.”

New Yorkers have three options from the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. They can get an enhanced ID , a REAL ID or a standard ID. The enhanced ID and REAL ID are both compliant with the REAL ID laws, however the standard driver’s license is not. The New York Department of Motor Vehicles offers an online tool to help residents determine which ID is right for them. An enhanced ID can be used instead of a passport to return to the U.S. by land or sea from Canada, Mexico and some countries in the Caribbean, although it is not acceptable for air travel between these countries. However, an enhanced ID is REAL ID-compliant and is accepted to board a domestic flight.

“The good news is that you do not have to wait to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID,” said Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.  “You can get one now at your local DMV office. We urge all New Yorkers who want to travel within the US to act now, and we certainly are doing everything we can so people know about this change and act before the deadline. We don’t want any customers caught by surprise when they go to travel after the deadline.”

To get an enhanced license or a REAL ID-compliant license, individuals will need to visit a local Department of Motor Vehicles office in person and bring certain documents to prove U.S. citizenship and state residency. Required documents include one proof of identity, one proof of legal presence, two proofs of state residency, one proof of your Social Security number (if you’ve been issued one) and a current driver’s license if someone is applying to exchange one issued by another U.S. state.

Transportation Security Administration officers who staff the ticket document checking station at airports will not allow travelers into the checkpoint without a REAL ID-compliant license or another form of acceptable ID after May 2025, because of the federal law (The REAL ID Act of 2005) that mandates that a REAL ID is needed. Individuals who are unable to verify their identity will not be permitted to enter the TSA checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly.  

Passed by Congress in 2005 following a 9/11 Commission recommendation, the REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Security standards include incorporating anti-counterfeiting technology, preventing insider fraud, and using documentary evidence and record checks to ensure a person is who they claim to be.

Since enactment of the REAL ID Act in 2005, advancements in technology have enabled TSA to make significant improvements in checkpoint screening, particularly in the areas of identity management, on-person screening, accessible property screening and alarm resolution. Through the deployment of technologies such as Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT), Advanced Technology (AT) X-ray, then Computed Tomography (CT), Bottled Liquids Scanners (BLS), and Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), as well as deployment of Passenger Screening Canines (PSC) and the rollout of TSA PreCheck®, TSA has continually advanced its security capabilities. TSA also increased its vetting capability through Secure Flight, a risk-based passenger prescreening program that enhances security by identifying low and high-risk passengers before they arrive at the airport by matching their names against trusted traveler lists and watch lists. REAL ID requirements will strengthen these improvements further by providing an additional layer of confidence in the identity of the traveler.

Do you need a passport to travel in the U.S. in 2024?

T ravel is tricky enough, but to add to the already confusing world of air travel, the U.S. government has been teasing us with updated identification requirements for what seems like forever. After years of changed dates, extended deadlines, and general defiance at the state level, there’s still a lot of confusion around the REAL ID Act, particularly when it comes to modern air travel . So, do you need a passport to travel within the U.S. once this goes into effect?

Direct answer:  You will not need a passport to travel within the US in 2024 or 2025, when the REAL ID Act goes into effect, though you can use one. Most people will use a REAL ID compliant driver’s license. These are already being issued and can be identified by the star in the upper right hand corner of the ID.

Read on to see more about what this means and how do you prepare if your ID isn’t already compliant? We’ll clear a few things up regarding this issue and explain the use of your passport when traveling domestically.

The REAL ID Act basics

For starters, the REAL ID Act was slated to become law back on Oct. 1, 2020. However, the unprecedented circumstances of the last few years — traveling during the COVID-19 pandemic in particular — pushed the execution date. Now that date has been changed yet again . According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), all U.S. travelers must meet the REAL ID requirements to board domestic flights by May 7, 2025 (it was last slated for May 3, 2024, with October 1, 2021, and then to May 3, 2024, as the dates before then). While you may not need a passport to travel, you will need a REAL ID.

Every state will require a REAL ID

If you thought maybe your state wouldn’t comply with the act, we’re sorry to say that every territory and state will require a REAL ID. Some states have already started issuing them, so you may have one.

The REAL ID won’t get you everywhere

For trips to Mexico (by land) and Canada, and other international travel , you will still need a passport to enter. The REAL ID isn’t a substitute for your passport.

The REAL ID isn’t a passport

When you get your new ID, it doesn’t replace a passport. This can’t be used to fly outside of the U.S., but it could be used as a second form of ID. It’s also not a visa, it’s just your ID taken up a notch.

Do I need a passport to fly domestically?

According to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), all adult passengers (18 and above) must show valid identification at the airport to travel. The identification must show your picture, name, and state of residence. It doesn’t necessarily need to be your passport, which means you can fly domestically in the U.S. in 2024 without a valid passport for travel.

If you don’t have a passport, there are other acceptable forms of identification, including:

• U.S. passport card
• State-issued driver’s license
• DHS trusted traveler card
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Border crossing card
• Permanent resident card
• U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) ID
• Tribal-issued photo ID

Believe it or not, even if you don’t have any form of ID because, say, you forgot it at home, it’s lost, or you’re a “sovereign citizen,” you’re still able to fly within the U.S. You’ll need to complete an identity verification process as required by the TSA.

Don’t plan on breezing through airport security , though, because you’ll be subject to additional (i.e., lengthier, more intensive) screening. Children under the age of 18 are not expected to provide identification when traveling domestically.

What kind of ID do you need to travel domestically within the U.S.?

For domestic US travel in 2024 , an in-date driver’s license or other DMV-issued photo identity card with work. For other methods of identification, check the TSA’s acceptable identification guidelines .

Starting on May 7, 2025 , you will need a new REAL ID if you plan to use an ID to board. Fortunately, you are likely to already have one. As, according to the DHS, “All 50 states are now in full compliance issuing these cards, with most states becoming compliant in the last four years.” Again, a REAL ID has a star in the upper right hand corner. If you happened to renew your last ID before your state was compliant, you’re now able to receive a REAL ID-compliant version at your next visit. In the absence of a REAL ID, you will be able to use a valid passport, a U.S. military ID, or a federal government PIV card for domestic travel.

Without a passport, REAL ID-compliant card, or any other accepted forms of identification, you won’t be allowed through TSA checkpoints, meaning you won’t be able to fly within the U.S.

Do you need a REAL ID to fly in the U.S.?

• If the new date sticks, when it gets here, then yes, you will.
• You’ll also need it if you want to enter federal facilities.

Beginning May 7, 2025, if they don’t have a passport, all U.S. travelers will need a REAL ID to fly for domestic travel. The ID will be required to access any federal facility, so, for example, you won’t be able to visit some national monuments, federal buildings, or loved ones at military installations without one.

This law will apply to all 50 states and territories, including Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Without the ID, you could still use your passport to fly locally. But that could still be a potential challenge for the almost 60% of U.S. citizens who don’t have a passport.

You get your REAL ID through your local Department of Motor Vehicles office, AAA, or regional state offices. It’s possible to complete the necessary documentation online before visiting the office, too, so be sure to check the minimum requirements before applying.

What do you need to travel within the U.S.?

When traveling as a resident, you’ll need a valid passport, driver’s license, state ID, or military ID. Before traveling, be sure to check your identification to ensure it is valid and current. Also, take time to learn about the laws of the state you’re flying to — that helps avoid delays and frustrations.

U.S. citizens can also use state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses (EDLs) to fly locally. Know that EDLs are only available in select states, including New York, Washington, Minnesota, Vermont, and Michigan. They’re typically given to residents in states close to U.S. borders to comply with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative .

If you’re a foreign national traveling within the U.S., you’ll need your passport, so be sure to keep your passport safe while traveling. Flying within the U.S. without a passport as a foreign national could be quite stressful.

On the other hand, green-carded residents must have their regular photo ID and green card to fly within the U.S. The card also functions as a driver’s license or other ID, and you’re not required to have a passport for domestic travel.

Where can I fly without a passport?

• The sky is the limit — within the U.S.

As of 2024, there are no states that require passports from U.S. citizens to fly domestically. Your airline or the TSA should never ask you to present a valid passport. Of course, you could carry it with you for additional photo identification in case you lose your other forms of ID.

Bottom line: You can fly to all 50 states and surrounding territories without a passport. Just make sure to carry either your driver’s license or a state-issued ID. To avoid frustrations in the future, ensure your driver’s license and other ID are REAL-ID compliant before May 2025. You’ll need a passport to travel internationally , so it’s vital not to leave it at home if your travel plans are likely to include leaving the U.S.

If you have a trip planned for the next few years, it will be business as usual, where you won’t have to worry about having a passport or REAL ID, anyway. But after that, you will need a REAL ID, and if you don’t have one, you’ll need a valid passport. Either get ready to get your passport — which is good for 10 years — or your REAL ID before 2025, not forgetting about how long it could take to get that passport. Things will probably be a bit rough, and we’ll have some growing pains while everyone adjusts to the new REAL ID rules, so it might be better if you have a passport to be safe.

The post Do you need a passport to travel in the U.S. in 2024? appeared first on The Manual .

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

Back to Black

The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

• Sam Taylor-Johnson
• Matt Greenhalgh
• Marisa Abela
• Eddie Marsan
• Jack O'Connell
• 25 User reviews
• 41 Critic reviews
• 52 Metascore

• Amy Winehouse

• Mitch Winehouse

• Blake Fielder-Civil

• Cynthia Winehouse

• Janis Winehouse

• Nick Shymansky

• Raye Cosbert

• A & R Manager

• Chris Taylor

• Perfume Paul

• Aunt Melody

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Did you know

• Trivia Marisa Abela did all the singing in this film herself. She trained extensively to mimic Amy Winehouse 's vocals.

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 2 minutes

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed