Key Takeaways
• REAL ID enforcement begins May 7, 2025—accepted for domestic flights, must have star on license.
• A valid passport or other federally accepted ID can be used instead of a REAL ID for domestic travel.
• Children under 18 do not need ID when flying domestically with an adult who has proper identification.
The following FAQ has been designed to answer common questions about the REAL ID requirement, its relationship to domestic air travel in the United States 🇺🇸, passport use, and what all travelers—citizens, immigrants, and visitors—need to know for flying within the country. The goal is to give you clear, up-to-date information so you can travel with confidence and avoid confusion at the airport.
Most Popular Questions
What is the REAL ID and why does it matter for domestic air travel?
The REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that follows strict security rules set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Starting May 7, 2025, all adults flying within the United States 🇺🇸 must show a federally accepted ID to pass through airport security. The REAL ID is one of these accepted IDs. This rule affects domestic air travel, which means flights inside the United States 🇺🇸.
Do I need both a REAL ID and a passport to fly within the United States 🇺🇸?
No, you do not need both. You only need one valid type of federally accepted identification when flying domestically. You can choose to show a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, or you can use your passport. Either will work at airport security.
What are the main forms of identification accepted for domestic air travel?
For flights inside the United States 🇺🇸, you may use any one of the following:
– A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID card (look for a star in the upper right corner).
– A United States 🇺🇸 passport book or a passport card.
– Trusted Traveler cards issued by the DHS, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST.
– A Department of Defense ID if you are in the military or an eligible civilian employee.
– A U.S. permanent resident card (green card).
– State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (only in some states).
Are there any differences between a standard driver’s license and a REAL ID?
Yes. A standard driver’s license that is not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted for domestic air travel after the new rules go into effect. Only a REAL ID license or ID card is acceptable. REAL ID cards have a star marking in the upper right corner to help you tell the difference.
General Questions about the REAL ID and Passports
What is the difference between a passport and a REAL ID?
A passport is an international travel document you use to enter and leave different countries. A REAL ID is a type of driver’s license or state ID used for identity checks within the United States 🇺🇸, like domestic air travel and entering certain federal buildings. You do not need both for a domestic flight—you can choose one or the other.
If I already have a passport, do I still need a REAL ID to fly within the United States 🇺🇸?
No, you do not need a REAL ID if you have a valid U.S. passport. You can show your passport at airport security when flying domestically. The passport acts as a federally accepted ID for these trips.
What is a passport card—and can I use it instead of a REAL ID?
A passport card is a smaller version of a passport book. It is only valid for travel by land and sea to Canada 🇨🇦, Mexico 🇲🇽, the Caribbean, and Bermuda 🇧🇲. However, you can use a passport card as an accepted ID for domestic air travel in the United States 🇺🇸 in place of a REAL ID.
What if I forget my REAL ID or passport at home before a flight?
If you show up at the airport without any acceptable ID, the TSA may allow you to prove who you are using other methods, but this will take more time. You might miss your flight if you cannot give other proof of identity. It is always safest to bring an accepted ID.
About the May 7, 2025, REAL ID Enforcement Date
When did the REAL ID requirement go into effect?
The REAL ID rule is officially enforced as of May 7, 2025. From this date, standard state driver’s licenses that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be allowed for domestic air travel.
What happens if I try to fly without a REAL ID after May 7, 2025?
As of the enforcement date, if you try to board your flight with a state driver’s license that is not REAL ID-compliant, you may still be allowed to fly if you bring another accepted ID, like your U.S. passport, a trusted traveler card, or a green card.
If you do not have any accepted ID, you might still be able to board, but only after extra steps and screening. The Department of Homeland Security has said that travelers without a REAL ID can expect more questions and possible delays, and should arrive at the airport at least an hour earlier than usual. The TSA has the last word on whether you will be allowed to board.
Is this extra flexibility permanent?
No, this is a temporary measure while the REAL ID system is fully applied across the country. It might change, so it is important to check before you travel.
REAL ID for Different Groups of Travelers
Are there different rules for children under 18?
Yes. Children under 18 do not have to show identification when flying within the United States 🇺🇸 if they are traveling with an adult. The adult must show an approved ID.
What about immigrants, green card holders, or people on visas?
If you are a permanent resident (green card holder) or are in the United States 🇺🇸 on a visa, you can show your green card or other accepted ID for domestic flights. You do not need both a REAL ID and a green card—one is enough. If you have a passport from your home country and a valid visa, you can also use your foreign passport as long as it is accepted by the TSA.
Additional Questions about REAL ID and Airport Security
How can I tell if my driver’s license is a REAL ID?
Look for a star mark (often gold, sometimes black or white) in the upper right corner of the card. Most states use the star sign to show your driver’s license or ID card is REAL ID-compliant. If you do not see this star, your card is likely not REAL ID-compliant. If you are unsure, check with your state DMV or visit the official REAL ID DHS website.
Can I use other documents instead of a REAL ID or passport for domestic flights?
Yes, there are several other forms of ID that are accepted by airport security, including:
– DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
– U.S. Department of Defense ID card
– U.S. permanent resident card
– State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (available in some states)
You only need one. For the full list, you can visit the official TSA identification page.
Will my REAL ID replace my passport for international travel?
No. The REAL ID is only for domestic use—like flights within the United States 🇺🇸 or entering certain federal buildings. For international travel, including Canada 🇨🇦 or Mexico 🇲🇽, you must carry your U.S. passport or a passport from your home country with a valid U.S. visa.
Can I use a temporary paper ID to fly?
Usually no. Paper driver’s licenses or state IDs are not accepted for flights. Only official, plastic, REAL ID-compliant cards (with a star) are accepted.
State-Level Issues and Delays
What if my state has low REAL ID compliance?
Some states, such as New Jersey, have lower rates of people getting REAL ID cards. If you live in a state with low compliance, you may face longer lines or wait times at your DMV. You should apply for your REAL ID early to avoid delays. As enforcement grows, it may become harder to get one quickly.
Has the REAL ID deadline been delayed before?
Yes. The REAL ID law first passed in 2005, but the deadline for enforcement has been delayed several times. The current deadline is May 7, 2025, and it is now in effect.
Scenarios and Examples
Example 1:
Carlos is a U.S. citizen who wants to fly from California to Florida. He does not have a REAL ID, but he has a U.S. passport. He uses his passport as ID at the airport. He gets through security and boards his flight with no problem.
Example 2:
Asha is a permanent resident with a green card. She does not have a REAL ID. She uses her green card as her ID for a flight from New York to Texas and is allowed through security.
Example 3:
Emily has a standard (non-REAL ID) driver’s license and no passport. She shows up to the airport and is told her license is not enough. She is delayed while the TSA tries to prove her identity and almost misses her flight. This could have been avoided with a REAL ID or passport.
Common Misconceptions
Do I need both a passport and a REAL ID to travel inside the United States 🇺🇸?
No. Many people think both are needed, but you only need one acceptable ID for TSA screening.
Does a REAL ID let me travel internationally?
No. Only a passport (book or card) can be used for international travel. The REAL ID is not accepted by other countries.
Is a regular state driver’s license still good for driving or other non-airport uses?
Yes. You can keep using it for driving, banking, voting, and proving identity in most settings. You just cannot use it for airport security after May 7, 2025, unless it has the REAL ID star.
Staying Updated and Where to Get Help
How can I stay up to date on REAL ID and air travel policies?
Check the official DHS REAL ID page for the latest news and requirements. Policies could change as more people get compliant IDs. Airlines and the TSA also provide updates on their websites.
Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that as more travelers prepare for the REAL ID deadline, extra airport delays may occur, especially in states where fewer people have switched to the new compliance cards. Planning ahead by getting your REAL ID or using your passport can help you save time and avoid problems at the airport.
Key Points Summary and Next Steps
- From May 7, 2025, adults need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state ID, passport, or other accepted document for domestic air travel in the United States 🇺🇸.
- You do not need both a REAL ID and a passport; one is enough for domestic flights.
- Children under 18 do not need ID for flights within the United States 🇺🇸 if flying with an adult.
- For international travel, a passport is still required.
- Travelers without a REAL ID after the enforcement date may face extra screening and delays.
- Apply for your REAL ID early, or make sure to bring your passport or another acceptable form of identification.
- For the most reliable and up-to-date information, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID website.
If you have questions about your situation, check with your local DMV or visit the official government websites above. You can also find helpful answers at VisaVerge.com, especially on immigration and travel rules. Plan ahead, check your documents, and safe travels!
Learn Today
REAL ID → A state-issued driver’s license or ID that meets federal security standards, needed for U.S. domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.
TSA → Transportation Security Administration; U.S. government agency responsible for airport security and screening travelers’ identification at checkpoints.
Trusted Traveler Cards → Identification cards, such as Global Entry or NEXUS, issued by DHS for expedited travel and accepted for domestic air travel.
Passport Card → A wallet-sized U.S. document valid for land and sea travel to nearby countries and accepted for domestic flights.
Green Card → U.S. Permanent Resident Card; allows legal permanent residents to live, work, and travel domestically as accepted identification.
This Article in a Nutshell
As of May 7, 2025, adults flying domestically in the U.S. must show a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, like a passport. Only one is required. Children under 18 don’t need ID when traveling with an adult. Plan ahead to avoid delays; check your documents before every flight.
— By VisaVerge.com
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