Key Takeaways
• REAL ID enforcement for domestic flights starts May 7, 2025; non-compliant IDs will be refused at airport checkpoints.
• Acceptable TSA-approved IDs include REAL ID licenses, U.S. passports, Trusted Traveler cards, Green Cards, and Canadian provincial licenses.
• Expired IDs may be accepted only if expired after March 1, 2020, and within one year; digital IDs allowed at select airports.
After years of discussion and preparation, the United States 🇺🇸 is moving forward with its long-planned REAL ID deadline for air travel. Beginning on May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all adult travelers—anyone 18 years of age or older—boarding domestic flights to show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another form of TSA-approved identification at airport security checkpoints. This new rule is part of a broader effort to improve air travel security and standardize identification documents across the country.
For many people traveling within the United States 🇺🇸, knowing exactly which identification documents the TSA will accept is key to ensuring a smooth airport experience. The list is specific, and both travelers and airlines are working hard to make sure everyone is ready before the deadline arrives. If you want to avoid confusion or last-minute stress, it is important to understand the changes, recognize acceptable IDs, and know what to expect if your documents are lost or expired.
Let’s take a detailed look at all the forms of identification that the TSA will accept for domestic flights after the REAL ID enforcement date, including information on REAL ID features, alternatives, special cases, and resources.
The REAL ID Act and the 2025 Deadline
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, is a federal law designed to set minimum security standards for the issuance of state-issued ID cards and driver’s licenses. The law was created in response to security concerns after September 11, 2001. Over time, implementation has been delayed to give states and travelers time to meet new requirements. The key date—May 7, 2025—marks the point when the final phase goes into effect. From this day forward, non-compliant licenses and IDs will no longer be accepted for boarding domestic flights.
If you are not sure whether your driver’s license or ID is REAL ID-compliant, look for a star—usually gold or black—printed in the top right corner of the card. Some states issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) marked with a U.S. flag; these are also accepted. If you don’t have one of these, you’ll have to use another form of TSA-approved ID.
Comprehensive List of TSA-Approved Forms of Identification After the REAL ID Deadline
To pass through airport security after May 7, 2025, travelers must present one of these forms of identification at the TSA checkpoint:
Driver’s Licenses and State IDs
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID: This is the most common document. Look for the star marking.
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL): Some states issue EDLs with a U.S. flag mark. These meet federal requirements and can be used for land and sea border crossings.
U.S. Federal Government IDs
- U.S. passport (book): A standard passport issued by the U.S. Department of State.
- U.S. passport card: This wallet-sized card is easier to carry and is accepted for domestic flights and land/sea crossings to Canada 🇨🇦, Mexico 🇲🇽, and some Caribbean countries.
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards: These include Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST cards, all of which show that the holder has undergone background checks and have security screening privileges.
Other Official IDs
- U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) ID: This includes Military IDs issued to active service members, dependents, and military retirees.
- Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”): Issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, this card allows lawful permanent residents to show their status.
- Border Crossing Card: Used primarily by citizens of Mexico 🇲🇽 who are allowed to travel in certain parts of the United States 🇺🇸.
Tribe and Indigenous-Related IDs
- Federally recognized Tribal Photo ID: These are official IDs issued to enrolled members of federally recognized Native American tribes.
- National Indian Affairs Card (INAC): Also accepted for valid identification.
Work-Related Credentials
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): Port and maritime workers use these cards, but they are also accepted at airport checkpoints if presented.
Accepted Canadian Documents
- Canadian provincial driver’s license: Citizens of Canada 🇨🇦 can fly domestically in the United States 🇺🇸 using this document.
- Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) card: Recognized as a valid form for Canadians.
These forms are part of the official TSA list of acceptable identification. Each type is considered a secure, verifiable credential, meeting the agency’s heightened security requirements after the REAL ID deadline.
Special Instructions for Document Types
1. Expired IDs
After May 7, 2025, most expired identification documents will not be accepted. However, there is a temporary allowance for IDs that expired on or after March 1, 2020. If your driver’s license or state ID expired during this period, it may be accepted for up to one year after expiration. This exception was put in place to help people who were unable to renew their documents due to pandemic-related delays. If you’re unsure, check with your state’s DMV or the TSA’s official identification guidelines.
2. Digital IDs
A handful of states have started to offer digital driver’s licenses or IDs. While the list of airports and states accepting digital licenses is currently short, the TSA allows these credentials at certain airports when travelers use TSA PreCheck lanes. Both your home state and your departing airport must participate in this program. If you are considering using a digital ID, check with your airport and state motor vehicle agency before you fly.
3. Travelers with Lost or Stolen IDs
If you arrive at the airport and cannot present a TSA-approved form of ID due to loss or theft, you might still be allowed to proceed—but you will face additional identity verification steps. In this case, TSA officers will ask for information to confirm your identity by checking databases and asking personal questions. This process is not guaranteed, causing extra wait times and the risk that you might not be allowed to board. Always try to arrive early if you know you’ll be using alternate procedures or a temporary paper ID.
IDs That Will NOT Be Accepted
It’s just as important to know what you can’t use at the airport, even if you are carrying one of these items:
- School ID cards or student identification, even from colleges or universities
- Birth certificates (by themselves, without photo ID)
- Library cards, club cards, or work badges unless they are federally recognized and specifically listed (such as DoD IDs)
- Photos, scans, or photocopies of any ID—even if it is stored on your phone or in the cloud—are not accepted
- Temporary paper driver’s licenses may be refused unless they can be electronically verified at the airport
The TSA stresses that travelers should arrive at the airport with an original, physical document from the list of TSA-approved forms of identification to ensure stress-free travel.
Why REAL ID Matters and How to Prepare
The REAL ID program is about standardizing the proof of identification needed for entrance to certain federal facilities and for flying domestically. The deadline is a response to national security needs, and compliance is strictly enforced.
The most important steps for travelers right now are:
- Check the status of your current license or ID card. Look for the star or U.S. flag to determine if you already have a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.
- Visit your state’s DMV website to see what paperwork you need to upgrade to REAL ID. This may include proof of residency, Social Security number, and additional records.
- Apply early for passport renewals if your U.S. passport or passport card will expire soon.
- Keep your TSA-approved ID in a safe, easy-to-remember place before your trip. This will save you time and stress at the airport.
- Do not rely on expired, digital, or photocopied IDs unless you have checked and confirmed their acceptance for your exact travel situation.
The Consequences of Not Complying
If you arrive at the airport after May 7, 2025, without a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of identification, the consequences can be severe. You may miss your flight, face long security wait times, and could even be denied entry beyond the security checkpoint. The TSA’s process for verifying identity without an approved document is slow, and in the end, you might not be cleared to board.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, travelers have been caught off guard by the REAL ID enforcement in previous years when earlier deadlines were announced. The new deadline is final and not expected to change, so planning ahead now is the best way to avoid problems.
Special Groups: Military Members, Permanent Residents, and Canadians
Some travelers use special types of ID quite often. For example, U.S. military members and their families can use DoD IDs including those given to dependents and retirees. Lawful permanent residents (“Green Card” holders) are allowed to use their green cards as an acceptable TSA-approved form of identification. Canadian citizens who are flying within the United States 🇺🇸 can use a Canadian provincial driver’s license or an INAC card. These policies help a variety of flyers, including workers, students, and dual citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will TSA accept my college or university ID?
A: No, school or student IDs are not accepted forms of identification for domestic flights after the REAL ID deadline.
Q: Can children under 18 fly without a REAL ID or passport?
A: Yes, children under 18 are not required to show identification when traveling with an adult within the United States 🇺🇸, but airlines may have their own requirements.
Q: Will an expired driver’s license work?
A: Only if the license expired on or after March 1, 2020, and is not more than one year past its expiration. Otherwise, expired IDs are not valid.
Q: Can I use a digital license or ID?
A: Only at select airports and in some states using TSA PreCheck. Confirm with your airport first.
Q: Is a Border Crossing Card enough for flying domestically?
A: Yes, this is on the list of TSA-approved documents.
Timeline and Next Steps
The clock is ticking toward the May 7, 2025 deadline for REAL ID enforcement. Here’s what you should do next:
- Check your current licenses and IDs for a REAL ID star or EDL flag.
- Gather your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address before going to the DMV if you need a new REAL ID.
- Apply for a U.S. passport or passport card now if you travel often or need a backup ID document.
- Visit your state DMV website early, as appointments fill up quickly.
- Re-check TSA’s official identification guidelines often for updates about acceptable documents and digital ID programs.
Resources
For the most current information and any changes affecting TSA-approved forms of identification, you can visit the TSA’s official list of acceptable IDs. This site is updated regularly as new states roll out digital licenses or update security features. State DMV websites, the Department of Homeland Security, and airlines’ travel documents pages also offer clear guidance for travelers.
Closing Summary
Beginning May 7, 2025, everyone aged 18 and older flying within the United States 🇺🇸 must show a REAL ID-compliant license or another TSA-approved form of identification at security. The list includes REAL ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, U.S. passports, Trusted Traveler cards, Green Cards, DoD IDs, recognized tribal IDs, and some Canadian credentials.
Always check your documents before your travel day and confirm that they meet the new requirements, since failure to present a valid TSA-approved ID could mean denied boarding or major delays. Working ahead and staying up to date using government sources will help you travel safely and without surprises during this important national change.
Learn Today
REAL ID Act → A federal law setting minimum security standards for state-issued IDs, required for air travel from May 7, 2025.
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) → A state-issued license with extra security features, accepted for land/sea U.S. border crossings and domestic flights.
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards → Security-vetted cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) granting expedited travel and accepted as TSA-approved identification.
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) → USCIS-issued card allowing lawful U.S. permanent residents to prove identity for air travel.
TSA PreCheck → A trusted traveler program allowing expedited security screening and digital ID acceptance at select U.S. airports.
This Article in a Nutshell
Starting May 7, 2025, all U.S. domestic flyers aged 18 or older require a REAL ID-compliant license or TSA-approved ID at security. U.S. passports, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, Trusted Traveler, military, and some Canadian documents are accepted, but school IDs, photocopies, or expired cards typically are not. Prepare early to avoid issues.
— By VisaVerge.com
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• TSA lets travelers fly with expired REAL ID before May 2025
• REAL ID deadline nears, but a U.S. passport works at TSA checkpoints
• TSA Acceptable ID Checker Online Tool
• TSA allows 11 new items in any size through CT scanners
