If you’ve flown recently, you may have noticed new signs at TSA checkpoints: REAL ID is now required for domestic air travel. The enforcement deadline passed on May 7, 2025, and millions of travelers are adjusting to the new rules.
Here’s everything you need to know about REAL ID requirements for flying in 2026, and what to do if you don’t have one yet.
What Is REAL ID?
REAL ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, established by the REAL ID Act of 2005. It was created after the 9/11 Commission recommended stronger identity verification for federal purposes, including boarding domestic flights.
A REAL ID-compliant card has a gold or black star marking in the upper corner. If your license doesn’t have that star, it’s not REAL ID-compliant and will not be accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights.
Do I Need a REAL ID to Fly?
Yes, for domestic flights. As of May 7, 2025, TSA requires a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to pass through security for domestic air travel.
However, you do not need a REAL ID if you have one of these alternative IDs:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- U.S. military ID (DoD)
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- Federally recognized tribal ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
If you have a valid U.S. passport, you’re already set. No REAL ID needed.
Some states also let you carry a digital ID or mobile driver’s license in Apple, Google, or Samsung Wallet, which TSA accepts at participating airports. It still must be based on a REAL ID-compliant license, and you should always carry the physical card as a backup.
How to Tell If Your ID Is REAL ID-Compliant
Look at the top of your driver’s license or state ID. A REAL ID-compliant card has a gold or black star icon, usually in the upper right corner.
Not sure? Check these:
- Star present = REAL ID compliant, you’re good to fly
- “Not for Federal Purposes” printed on card = NOT compliant
- No star, no marking = likely NOT compliant (varies by state)
When in doubt, bring your passport as a backup. The same ID rules apply to a non-traveler holding a gate pass.
How to Get a REAL ID
Getting a REAL ID requires an in-person visit to your state’s DMV or licensing office. You cannot apply online.
Documents you’ll need:
- Proof of identity: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or certificate of naturalization
- Proof of Social Security number: SSN card, W-2, or SSA-1099
- Two proofs of residency: utility bill, bank statement, mortgage document, or voter registration card
- Proof of legal name change (if applicable): marriage certificate or court order
Tips for a smooth DMV visit:
- Check your state’s DMV website for the exact document checklist, since requirements vary slightly
- Make an appointment if possible (walk-in waits can be long)
- Bring originals, not photocopies
- Budget 2-4 weeks for processing in most states
What Happens If I Show Up Without a REAL ID?
Since February 1, 2026, it costs money. If you reach the checkpoint without a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, TSA sends you to TSA ConfirmID, an identity verification process with a $45 fee:
- You pay only on Pay.gov (card, bank account, PayPal or Venmo), not at the airport, though you can pay from your phone before getting in line.
- One payment covers 10 days from the travel date you enter, so a short round trip needs one fee.
- The fee is nonrefundable, and paying does not guarantee TSA can verify you. If it can’t, you won’t be allowed through.
- Verification usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, sometimes 30 or more, and you should expect additional screening.
- Children under 18 don’t need ID on domestic flights and never pay.
A standard license without the star counts as no ID, so its holders pay the fee too. The step-by-step version, including what to bring, is in our guide to flying without an ID.
The bottom line: don’t risk it. Get your REAL ID or bring your passport, and $45 stays in your pocket. For the other checkpoint changes since 2025, see the new TSA rules for 2026.
REAL ID and TSA PreCheck
Having TSA PreCheck does not replace the need for a REAL ID. PreCheck speeds you through the security screening process (no removing laptops or liquids), but you still need a valid, compliant photo ID.
The good news: if you have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, you likely already went through enhanced identity verification during enrollment. But you still need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or passport at the checkpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an expired REAL ID to fly?
Yes, for up to two years after it expires. TSA accepts the IDs on its acceptable list, including REAL ID licenses and passports, for up to two years past expiration. An expired license without the star doesn’t count, because standard licenses aren’t accepted at all.
What happens if I don’t have a REAL ID at the airport?
If you have no other acceptable ID, such as a passport, you can pay a $45 TSA ConfirmID fee on Pay.gov so TSA can try to verify your identity. The fee covers 10 days, is nonrefundable and doesn’t guarantee you’ll be cleared.
Do children need a REAL ID to fly?
No. TSA does not require children under 18 to show identification when traveling with an adult companion on domestic flights.
Is REAL ID required for international flights?
No. International flights require a passport, which already exceeds REAL ID standards. REAL ID only applies to domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
Can I still fly with an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)?
Yes. Enhanced Driver’s Licenses issued by border states (Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington) are accepted at TSA checkpoints.
How long does it take to get a REAL ID?
Processing time varies by state, typically 2-4 weeks. Some states offer same-day issuance. Check your state’s DMV website for current timelines.
Plan Ahead for Smooth Security
The easiest way to avoid REAL ID headaches at the airport is to check your ID before your trip, not at the checkpoint. Make sure your license has the gold star, or pack your passport.
And once you’ve got your ID sorted, look up your airport on Airport TSA Times to see when its checkpoints are busiest, so you can spend less time in line and more time at your gate.