US Travelers Will Need a REAL ID-Compliant Driver’s License For Domestic Flights
Source: UCG / Getty
Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler in the U.S. who is 18 years or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly domestically. This new requirement is part of the REAL ID Act, which was designed to improve security standards for state-issued IDs.
To identify a REAL ID-compliant card, look for a star at the top right corner of your driver’s license or state ID. If you have a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, it will be marked with a flag. If you’re unsure whether your current ID is REAL ID-compliant, contact your state’s driver’s license agency for verification.
How to Obtain a REAL ID
If you’re applying for or renewing your driver’s license or state ID, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. Once issued, your new card will feature the star marking. The process for obtaining a REAL ID may vary by state, but typically, you’ll need to bring the following documents:
- Proof of Identity – A U.S. birth certificate, passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for non-U.S. citizens.
- Proof of Social Security Number – Your Social Security card, W-2 form, or a recent pay stub can serve as proof.
- Proof of Residency – A deed, lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement may be required to show you are a resident of your state.
Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website for specific instructions and required documents.
How to Check if Your ID is REAL ID-Compliant
If your ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, it is already REAL ID-compliant, and you don’t need to do anything further. If your ID lacks the star, you will need to apply for an upgrade before the deadline.
Alternatives
If you choose not to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license, you can still use other forms of identification to board a flight, such as a U.S. passport. However, for air travel and entry into federal facilities, your state-issued ID will no longer be sufficient if it isn’t REAL ID-compliant.
While you can still obtain a non-REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, it won’t be valid for air travel or access to federal government facilities after May 7, 2025.
Make sure to visit your state’s driver’s license agency website to learn more about how to get a REAL ID or if you’d prefer to keep your current ID without the REAL ID designation.
SEE ALSO: