You need only a passport or REAL ID for US domestic flights in 2025

Key Takeaways

• Starting May 7, 2025, travelers need one approved ID: REAL ID or valid U.S. passport for domestic flights.
• Standard driver’s licenses without a REAL ID star will not be accepted at airport security after May 7, 2025.
• Minors under 18 do not need identification for domestic flights if traveling with an adult who has proper documents.

The following FAQ is designed to help travelers in the United States 🇺🇸 understand the identification requirements for domestic flights, especially in light of the upcoming REAL ID deadline on May 7, 2025. Whether you are a citizen, permanent resident, student, or a visitor using U.S. domestic flights, this FAQ explains the most up-to-date rules regarding passports, the REAL ID program, and what documents you need at airport security.

You need only a passport or REAL ID for US domestic flights in 2025

Most Popular Questions

Do I need both a passport and a REAL ID to fly domestically in the United States 🇺🇸?

No, you do not need both a passport and a REAL ID to board a domestic flight within the United States 🇺🇸. As of May 7, 2025, you will only need one acceptable form of identification at airport security. That can be either a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, or another approved document like a valid U.S. passport book or passport card.

What is a REAL ID, and why is it important for domestic flights?

A REAL ID is a type of driver’s license or state identification card that meets stricter security standards set by the federal government. It is marked with a star symbol, usually in the upper right corner. Beginning May 7, 2025, every person 18 or older will need a REAL ID compliant license, a valid passport, or another approved document to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings.

Identification Requirements for Domestic Flights After May 7, 2025

What forms of identification will be accepted at airport security after May 7, 2025?

You can present any one of the following to board a domestic flight in the United States 🇺🇸:

A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued photo ID (look for the star symbol)
A valid U.S. passport book
A valid U.S. passport card
Other federally approved forms of identification

For a full list of acceptable identification documents, see the TSA’s official page on ID requirements.

If I have a valid U.S. passport, do I also need a REAL ID to fly domestically?

If you already have a valid U.S. passport book or U.S. passport card, either one is enough for domestic flights. You are not required to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID for airline travel within the United States 🇺🇸. Your passport by itself meets all of the federal rules for boarding domestic flights after May 7, 2025.

Do I need a passport to fly within the United States 🇺🇸 if I already have a REAL ID?

No. If you have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, you do not need a passport for domestic flights. Your REAL ID is all you need to pass through airport security. You only need your passport for international flights.

Comparing Accepted Documents

What is the difference between a regular driver’s license and a REAL ID?

Standard Driver’s License: Not accepted for domestic flights after May 7, 2025, unless upgraded to REAL ID.
REAL ID Driver’s License: Accepted for all domestic flights and entering certain federal buildings.
U.S. Passport Book or Card: Accepted for domestic flights, and required for international travel (passport book for most countries, or passport card for land and sea crossings with nearby countries like Canada 🇨🇦 or Mexico 🇲🇽).

Here is a quick summary table:

What about minors under 18 years old—do they need a REAL ID or passport to fly?

No, travelers who are under 18 are not required to show identification at airport security when traveling with an adult on domestic flights. The adult companion must show a valid form of identification that meets the requirements.

Practical Scenarios

If I have a valid passport but not a REAL ID, will I be turned away at airport security after May 7, 2025?

No. Having a valid U.S. passport book or passport card is enough for security checks at U.S. airports. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts passports as meeting the highest federal standards. You do not need to show both a passport and a REAL ID.

I only have a standard driver’s license right now. Do I need to upgrade it to a REAL ID if I want to use it at the airport?

Yes. If your current driver’s license or state ID does not have the star symbol, it is not a REAL ID and will not be accepted for boarding domestic airline flights after May 7, 2025. You can either upgrade your license to a REAL ID or use a valid U.S. passport instead.

Can I use my U.S. passport card instead of my passport book?

Yes, for domestic flights, a valid U.S. passport card is just as acceptable as a passport book. Both meet the federal rules for domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025. For international travel, you’ll need a passport book except for certain land and sea crossings.

Application & Renewal Guidance

How do I get a REAL ID?

You apply for a REAL ID at your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and residency. Requirements can vary, so check your state DMV’s website for details.

What documents do I need to get a REAL ID?

Usually, you’ll need:

Proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or valid passport)
– Social Security card or proof of your number
Proof of residency (like a utility bill with your address)

Some DMVs may ask for other papers, so always check before you go in.

How do I apply for or renew a U.S. passport?

You can apply for a U.S. passport using Form DS-11 (for first-time applicants) or renew it with Form DS-82 (for renewals). Application steps and needed documents are explained on the U.S. State Department’s official website.

If my passport is expired, can I still use it for domestic flights?

No. Your passport must be valid to use it as identification for domestic flights. An expired passport will not be accepted at airport security. You will need a valid REAL ID or a valid passport book/card.

Special Cases and Misconceptions

Is the REAL ID a replacement for a passport?

No, a REAL ID is not a replacement for a passport. While it allows you to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings, a passport is still needed for most international travel. The REAL ID’s main use is for domestic security checks and access to certain federal offices.

Can I use a foreign passport for domestic flights in the United States 🇺🇸?

TSA may accept unexpired foreign passports as identification for domestic flights. However, travelers should check the latest rules on the TSA identification page to make sure their travel plans are not affected.

Does everyone need to upgrade to REAL ID?

Not everyone needs to upgrade to a REAL ID. If you have a valid U.S. passport and prefer to use it at the airport, you are not required to get a REAL ID. However, many people find it easier to carry a driver’s license than a passport for everyday activities.

Key Dates and Reminders

When does the REAL ID enforcement start?

REAL ID enforcement starts on May 7, 2025. After this date, standard driver’s licenses or state IDs without a REAL ID mark will not be accepted at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights. Start the process early if you plan to upgrade or renew any identification documents.

What happens if I show up at the airport after May 7, 2025, with only a standard driver’s license (not REAL ID) and no passport?

You will not be allowed through security or allowed to board your domestic flight. Starting May 7, 2025, travelers must show one of the accepted forms of identification: a REAL ID-compliant license or a valid passport (book or card). Plan ahead to avoid travel disruptions.

Quick Recap: What Do I Need for U.S. Domestic Flights in 2025?

You only need one approved document at airport security after May 7, 2025: a REAL ID (with the star), a valid passport book, or passport card.
No need to have both a passport and a REAL ID.
If you have a standard license without a REAL ID star and no valid passport, you will be turned away at airport security.

Where can I find more information?

For official government details about REAL ID and a full FAQ, visit the Department of Homeland Security page about REAL ID.
For questions about what counts as valid ID at security, see the TSA identification rules.
To apply for, renew, or check the status of your U.S. passport, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Passport Information page.
Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that travelers should apply for new identification documents as early as possible to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure smooth travel plans as the REAL ID enforcement date approaches.

Final Notes

If you plan to fly domestically in the United States 🇺🇸 after May 7, 2025, you need to make sure you have one valid form of federally approved identification—either a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or a valid U.S. passport (book or card). You do not need both. Always check expiration dates on your passport, and if you want to use your driver’s license, look for the REAL ID star.

For the most up-to-date official guidance, always check with the Department of Homeland Security, TSA, or the U.S. State Department in advance of your trip. Keeping your identification current is the best way to ensure your domestic travel in the United States 🇺🇸 continues without interruption.

Learn Today

REAL ID → A federally-approved driver’s license or ID with a star marking, required for airport security starting May 7, 2025.
TSA → Transportation Security Administration; oversees U.S. airport security and identification requirements for domestic flights.
Passport Card → A wallet-sized card issued by the U.S. government, acceptable for domestic flights and land/sea travel to certain countries.
State ID → A government-issued identification card, can be REAL ID-compliant if it includes the required security features and star symbol.
DMV → Department of Motor Vehicles; state agency where REAL ID-compliant licenses and identification are issued.

This Article in a Nutshell

From May 7, 2025, U.S. domestic travelers must show either a REAL ID-compliant license or a valid passport book/card at airport security. Standard driver’s licenses without the gold star will no longer be accepted. Only one approved document is required, and minors traveling with adults don’t need identification.
— By VisaVerge.com

• REAL ID rule will not apply to minors under 18 on US domestic flights
• REAL ID not valid for international travel; passport still required
• REAL ID offers little added value if you have a valid passport
• Global Entry cards can replace REAL ID for airport security in 2025
• REAL ID applications now start online through DMV in Washington State