TSA lets travelers fly with expired REAL ID before May 2025

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Key Takeaways

• After May 7, 2025, only unexpired, REAL ID-compliant cards or approved documents allowed for domestic flights.
• TSA accepts expired REAL IDs for less than one year only before May 7, 2025 at security checkpoints.
• Valid U.S. passports, military IDs, and trusted traveler cards are accepted alternatives if your REAL ID is expired.

This FAQ provides clear, simple answers to common questions about traveling with a REAL ID, what happens if your REAL ID is expired, and what to expect as airport security rules change. It covers key dates, what documents the TSA will accept, and steps travelers should take if their identification is expired. The FAQ also addresses potential myths and provides practical tips to help travelers avoid surprises or delays.

TSA lets travelers fly with expired REAL ID before May 2025

Most Popular Questions

Can I fly with an expired REAL ID?
What do I do if my REAL ID is expired?
Will the TSA accept an expired REAL ID after May 7, 2025?
What is the REAL ID and why do I need it?
Are there other forms of ID that the TSA will accept?
What if my REAL ID has only been expired for a few days or weeks?
What should I do if my ID is expired and I need to travel soon?
How can I renew my REAL ID?
How can I avoid problems at airport security?
Where can I find official information on REAL ID and TSA rules?

Can I fly with an expired REAL ID?

Until May 7, 2025, you may use an expired REAL ID or state-issued driver’s license for domestic flights within the United States 🇺🇸 if the ID has been expired for less than one year.

If your ID expired less than one year ago: The TSA allows you to use it at security checkpoints for domestic flights.
If your ID expired more than a year ago: The TSA will not accept it. You must provide another approved form of identification, such as a valid (unexpired) U.S. passport.

Example:
If your REAL ID expired five months before your flight, you may still use it for domestic air travel before May 7, 2025. If it expired 14 months earlier, you will need to show another form of accepted ID.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these rules mean many travelers are still able to fly even if their ID is expired, but only within the allowed time frame.

What do I do if my REAL ID is expired?

If it’s been less than one year since your REAL ID expired:
- You can likely still fly domestically with it before May 7, 2025.
- Allow extra time at the airport.
- Bring a backup form of ID if you have one, in case airport security staff have questions.
If it’s been more than one year since your REAL ID expired:
- Your expired REAL ID will not be accepted by the TSA at checkpoints.
- You must bring another approved form of identification, such as a valid passport.

After May 7, 2025, can I use an expired REAL ID for domestic flights?

No. After May 7, 2025, only a valid, unexpired REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID will be accepted by the TSA at airport security checkpoints.

REAL ID-compliant means your driver’s license or state ID meets certain federal security standards. It usually has a star on the top right corner.
TSA has not confirmed if any grace period for expired REAL IDs will still apply after this date.

Important Tip:
To avoid travel problems after May 7, 2025, make sure your REAL ID or other acceptable identification is valid and not expired before your flight.

What is the REAL ID and why do I need it?

A REAL ID is a driver’s license or state ID card that meets security standards set by the federal government. Starting May 7, 2025, every person who wants to board a domestic flight, enter certain federal buildings, or visit military bases in the United States 🇺🇸 will need a REAL ID or another approved form of identification.

You can tell if your ID is a REAL ID because it usually has a star in the top right corner.
This law is part of an effort to improve safety at airports and other secure locations.

Are there other forms of ID that the TSA will accept?

Yes, the TSA accepts several types of documents besides a REAL ID or state-issued driver’s license. These include:

Valid (unexpired) U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (such as Global Entry or NEXUS)
U.S. military ID
Permanent resident card (“Green Card”)
Foreign government-issued passport

A full list of accepted IDs can be found on the official TSA website.

What if my REAL ID has only been expired for a few days or weeks?

As long as your REAL ID expired less than a year before your travel date and you are flying before May 7, 2025, the TSA should allow you to use it for domestic flights.

Note:
While short-term expiration is usually allowed, be ready to answer questions or provide additional documents. Bring a backup form of identification if you can, just in case.

What should I do if my ID is expired and I need to travel soon?

If your REAL ID expired less than a year ago:
- You should be able to fly domestically until May 7, 2025.
- Try to renew your REAL ID as soon as possible.
- Bring extra documents—a second form of identification or any proof showing you have started the renewal process may help if questions arise at security.
If your REAL ID expired over a year ago:
- You cannot use it at the airport.
- Bring another TSA-approved ID, such as a valid U.S. passport.

Suggestion:
Plan ahead for your trip to avoid any last-minute issues.

How can I renew my REAL ID if it is expired or about to expire?

You need to contact your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) to renew your REAL ID.

General steps include:
1. Finish a renewal form on the DMV website or at a DMV office.
2. Bring required documents (such as proof of address, Social Security Number, current ID).
3. Pay the renewal fee.
4. Get your photo taken (if required).
5. Wait for your new REAL ID to arrive or pick it up, depending on your state’s process.

Resources:
Check with your state DMV for exact instructions and for the required documents.

How can I avoid problems at airport security with my REAL ID?

Keep your REAL ID valid and renew it well before it expires.
If your REAL ID is expired but less than a year ago, bring backup identification and arrive earlier at the airport.
Always check TSA rules before your flight, especially if rules may have changed.
Look out for the star on your driver’s license or state ID; this marks it as REAL ID-compliant.
Consider carrying a passport or another approved ID as a backup.

What happens if I try to fly after May 7, 2025, with an expired or non-REAL-ID?

Your expired or non-compliant driver’s license or ID will not be accepted at airport security checkpoints. You will need to use another approved document, such as a valid passport. If you do not have one, you may not be allowed to board your flight.

Key Dates Table

Date	Requirement
Before May 7, 2025	Expired (less than 1 year) REAL ID or state ID can be used
After May 7, 2025	Only unexpired, REAL-ID compliant license/ID accepted

Are there myths about expired REAL IDs and air travel?

Yes, here are some common misunderstandings:

Myth: Any expired ID can be used to fly domestically.
- Fact: Only IDs expired less than a year are allowed, and only until May 7, 2025.
Myth: You can use any state-issued ID for flights after May 7, 2025, even if expired.
- Fact: After that date, only an unexpired REAL ID-compliant card or another approved document will be accepted.

What happens at the airport if my REAL ID is expired?

TSA will check the expiration date on your REAL ID.
If it expired less than a year ago and you’re flying before May 7, 2025, you should be allowed through, but you might be asked additional questions.
If it expired more than a year ago, or it’s after May 7, 2025, you’ll be asked to present another valid, approved form of ID.
If you cannot provide another approved document, you may not be allowed to board your flight.

Note:
TSA staff follow federal rules and cannot make exceptions. It is always safest to travel with current, valid identification.

What if I have already booked travel after May 7, 2025, and my REAL ID will be expired?

You will need to renew your REAL ID or plan to travel with another approved document, such as a U.S. passport.
Do not wait until the last minute—renewal processing times can vary.

What should international travelers know about the REAL ID requirements?

REAL ID rules apply to everyone flying domestically within the United States 🇺🇸, regardless of citizenship.
Foreign visitors should travel with their passports.
If they have a U.S. driver’s license and plan to use it for domestic flights, it must be a valid, unexpired REAL ID-compliant card.

How does TSA define “acceptable identification”?

According to the TSA, acceptable identification at airport checkpoints includes:

REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID (valid and unexpired)
U.S. passport or passport card (must be unexpired)
U.S. military ID
Certain DHS trusted traveler cards

See the full list on the TSA’s secure identification page.

Will there be exceptions for recently expired REAL IDs after May 7, 2025?

The TSA has NOT officially announced any exception for expired REAL IDs after May 7, 2025.
Plan for only valid, unexpired REAL ID cards or alternate accepted documents to be permitted.

What if I arrive at the airport with an expired REAL ID and no other ID?

If it is before May 7, 2025, and less than a year expired, you may be able to fly—though you may face questions, delays, or more security checks.
If it’s after May 7, 2025, or your ID has been expired for more than a year, you will not be allowed past security.
Having a valid, back-up form of ID is always recommended.

Can I still drive or use services with an expired REAL ID?

Rules for using an expired REAL ID as a driver’s license or for other services depend on your state’s laws. Many states have separate rules for driving and for air travel. Always check your local DMV or state agency for details.

Where can I find official, up-to-date information on REAL ID and TSA requirements?

To make sure you have the latest and most accurate rules for travel and acceptable identification, check these trusted official resources:

Summary and Next Steps

You may use an expired REAL ID (expired less than a year) for domestic flights until May 7, 2025.
After May 7, 2025, only unexpired, REAL ID-compliant cards or another TSA-approved document, such as a valid passport, will be accepted.
Always bring a backup ID if you can, and renew your REAL ID before traveling.
Check TSA’s official site and your state’s DMV for up-to-date information and instructions.

For more facts about REAL ID, air travel, and TSA security, you can also visit VisaVerge.com, which continues to monitor changes and updates to REAL ID and travel rules.

If you have further questions about identification or need specific advice about your situation, reach out to your local DMV or contact the TSA directly before travel. Being prepared is the best way to make sure your trip goes smoothly and safely.

Learn Today

REAL ID → A federally compliant driver’s license or state ID featuring a star, required for U.S. domestic flights after May 7, 2025.
TSA → Transportation Security Administration; enforces airport identification, screening, and security regulations for domestic and international flights in the U.S.
Grace Period → A set time after a deadline, during which certain expired documents remain temporarily valid for travel or identification.
Compliant → Meeting prescribed standards; in this context, an ID card with features accepted by the REAL ID Act for travel.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) → The state agency responsible for issuing licenses, vehicle registrations, and REAL ID renewals.

This Article in a Nutshell

Travelers must be aware: Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will require a valid, unexpired REAL ID or approved alternative for domestic flights. If your REAL ID expired less than a year ago, you may use it only before this date. Plan ahead and always have backup identification to avoid issues.
— By VisaVerge.com

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