(UNITED STATES) TSA began full enforcement of the federal REAL ID rules at airport checkpoints on May 7, 2025, ending years of extensions and reminders. Adults flying within the United States must now show a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or ID card or present another acceptable ID, such as a passport. TSA has not created a “free” or “no physical ID” option. While limited digital identity tools exist for some TSA PreCheck users, these pilots do not replace the need to carry an acceptable government-issued ID. The change touches millions of domestic travelers and is shaping airport routines across the country.
REAL ID Enforcement: What TSA Requires at Checkpoints
Under full enforcement, non‑REAL‑ID driver’s licenses and ID cards are no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. Travelers aged 18 and older must present a compliant card or an approved alternative. TSA’s security position is clear: the REAL ID standards make IDs harder to forge and support checkpoint security.
Children under 18 may still fly on domestic routes without ID when traveling with an adult.
According to TSA updates in April 2025, most passengers were already presenting acceptable identification, with an estimated 81% showing compliant IDs before the deadline. TSA expects compliance to keep rising as travelers switch to REAL ID or rely on other accepted documents.
Acceptable Identification: Options Beyond a Driver’s License
If your license lacks the REAL ID star and your state did not issue an Enhanced Driver’s License, it will not get you through security. Alternatives include:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST
- U.S. military/DoD ID
- State Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
- Other IDs listed on TSA’s official page
For a current list, see TSA’s acceptable identification page: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
Note that an EDL is different from a standard license. REAL ID‑compliant cards usually show a star marking, while EDLs typically display a flag symbol. Either can be used at the checkpoint.
Digital Identity Pilots and TSA PreCheck: What They Do—and Don’t—Change
Some airports now support mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet and other digital identity tools tied to TSA PreCheck lanes. These pilots are limited and rely on a valid, underlying identity record.
TSA has not announced a nationwide policy allowing all travelers to use only a digital ID. Practical advice remains simple: even if your state issues an mDL, carry your physical acceptable ID as backup. Having TSA PreCheck or CLEAR does not waive ID requirements.
Who Doesn’t Need ID and Special Cases
- Children under 18 flying domestically with an adult do not need ID.
- Noncitizens departing the United States on international flights as part of self‑removal are not denied boarding under REAL ID rules, per TSA’s April 2025 notice.
- If you arrive at the checkpoint without acceptable ID, TSA may try to confirm your identity using questions and databases, followed by extra screening. Entry is not guaranteed, and you may be denied travel that day.
Practical Steps Travelers Should Take Now
1) Check your card
Look for the REAL ID star on your driver’s license or state ID. If there’s no star and it’s not an Enhanced Driver’s License, plan an alternative.
2) Line up a backup
A passport or passport card is valid for TSA screening nationwide and works in every airport. Many frequent flyers now carry a passport even on domestic trips.
3) Upgrade with your DMV
If you need a REAL ID, make an appointment with your state DMV. You’ll typically bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your address. Processing times vary, so start well before your travel date.
4) Plan for the checkpoint
Keep your acceptable ID in hand as you approach screening. If you misplaced your ID, be ready for additional questions and screening, and understand that TSA may still refuse entry.
5) TSA PreCheck users
If your airport supports digital identity in PreCheck lanes, you may be able to present it there, but bring your physical ID. The pilot does not replace the need to have an acceptable government‑issued credential on record.
State Implementation Notes: Texas and Arizona Examples
States have updated their guidance to match the federal enforcement date.
- Texas: State notices tell residents that a REAL ID is required for air travel starting May 7, 2025. A gold star marks compliant cards. Applicants use standard proof documents at the Department of Public Safety.
- Arizona: The state calls its REAL ID the “Travel ID.” The fee is $25, and the card is typically valid for up to eight years. Applicants gather proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency documents before visiting the MVD.
These examples reflect common steps nationwide. Check your state’s DMV for document lists, appointment availability, and any processing delays during busy seasons.
Impact on Travelers and Airports
Airports saw a mix of smooth transitions and morning hiccups as enforcement began. TSA says the goal is to reduce fake IDs and strengthen the link between the person at the checkpoint and the credential in their hand.
The agency is balancing security with keeping lines moving, and officers continue to guide travelers who arrive with outdated cards.
For employers booking staff travel, the policy shift is practical: confirm that company flyers carry a REAL ID‑compliant card or a passport before issuing tickets. For families, plan ahead for teenagers who turn 18; once they are adults, they must present acceptable ID for domestic flights.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the most reliable fallback for adults who are unsure about their state card is a valid passport or passport card. That keeps your travel day predictable, especially if your license renewal date falls close to a trip.
Common Myths and What’s Actually True
- “TSA now lets you fly without any ID.”
False. If you lack acceptable ID, identity verification is possible but not guaranteed; you may miss your flight.
- “TSA introduced a free digital ID for everyone.”
False. Digital options are limited pilots, usually in TSA PreCheck lanes, and still depend on a valid underlying ID. -
“CLEAR or PreCheck means I don’t need REAL ID.”
False. These programs do not replace the requirement to present an acceptable ID at the checkpoint. -
“Kids always need ID to fly.”
False. Children under 18 don’t need ID for domestic travel when accompanied by an adult.
How This Fits the Bigger Picture
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, set federal standards for state‑issued IDs. After multiple delays, DHS and TSA set May 7, 2025 as the firm date for full enforcement. The policy is now active at checkpoints across the United States 🇺🇸.
For most travelers, the day‑to‑day answer is simple: carry a REAL ID‑compliant card, a passport, or another acceptable document, and keep a backup plan if your wallet goes missing before a flight.
If you still have questions, contact your airline or reach out to AskTSA on social media for case‑specific help.
This Article in a Nutshell
On May 7, 2025, TSA enforced REAL ID for domestic flights nationwide. Adults must present compliant IDs or approved alternatives. Limited digital ID pilots exist but do not replace physical acceptable identification. Travelers should check licenses, carry passports as backups, and arrange REAL ID appointments early to avoid denied boarding or delays.
