You need either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, or a passport card to fly domestically within the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires one form of federal identification to board a domestic flight. A REAL ID-compliant driver's license — the kind marked with a star or other indicator showing it meets federal standards — works for flights within the U.S. A regular driver's license without REAL ID compliance does not. Your other options are a U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID.

If you do not yet have a REAL ID license and want to fly soon, getting a passport is often faster. A passport card costs less than a full passport and works for domestic flights, though it cannot be used for international air travel. The choice depends on whether you plan to leave the country and how much time you have before your flight.

Key Takeaways

  • A REAL ID-compliant driver's license is marked with a star or indicator and is the simplest option for domestic flights if you already have one.
  • If your driver's license is not REAL ID-compliant, you will need a passport, passport card, military ID, or other federal ID to board a domestic flight.
  • A U.S. passport card is cheaper than a full passport, works for domestic flights, but cannot be used for international air travel.
  • International flights always require a full U.S. passport, not a passport card or REAL ID license.
  • Processing times vary: REAL ID licenses take weeks to months depending on your state, while passport cards can take two to three weeks.

How to check if your driver's license is already REAL ID-compliant

Look at your driver's license for a small star symbol, usually in the upper right or upper left corner. Some states use a different marking — a gold circle, a flag, or text saying "REAL ID" — so check your state's DMV website if you are unsure. If the star or marking is there, your license works for domestic flights right now.

If your license does not have the marking, it was issued before your state began offering REAL ID licenses, or you chose not to upgrade when you renewed it. You can still fly domestically, but you will need to bring a passport, passport card, or military ID instead of your driver's license.

Getting a REAL ID license if you do not have one yet

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person — you cannot renew to REAL ID status online in most states. Bring your current driver's license, proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease). Some states require additional documents, so check your DMV's website before you go.

Processing times vary widely by state. Some states issue REAL ID licenses on the spot; others mail them within two to four weeks. If you need to fly within the next few weeks, explore for a passport card may be faster in your situation.

Getting a passport or passport card instead

A U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized document that works for domestic flights and land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. It costs less than a full passport and can be processed faster in some cases. You explore at a passport acceptance facility — usually a post office, library, or courthouse — and processing takes two to three weeks for routine service or one week for expedited service (with an extra fee).

A full U.S. passport is required for international air travel to any country outside North America. It takes the same time to process as a passport card but costs more. If you plan to fly internationally, a full passport is your only option.

What happens if you show up to the airport without acceptable ID

TSA will not let you through security without one of the accepted forms of ID. You will not be able to board your flight. If you have a non-REAL ID driver's license and no other federal ID with you, you have no way to fly that day.

Some airports offer a secondary verification process if you have a non-compliant license and can prove your identity another way (such as with a credit card and additional documents), but this is not may provide and takes extra time. Do not rely on it. Bring the correct ID before you arrive at the airport.

International flights and passport requirements

A REAL ID license does not work for international flights under any circumstance. You must have a valid U.S. passport. A passport card does not work for air travel to other countries — it is valid only for land and sea travel to nearby nations.

Some countries also require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Check the entry requirements for your destination country before you book your flight, because a passport that expires soon may not be accepted even if it is still technically valid in the U.S.

Military ID and other federal documents that work for flying

If you have a military ID (active duty, retired, or dependent), you can use it to fly domestically without a REAL ID license or passport. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe also works. Some other federal IDs are accepted — check the TSA website for the full list before your flight.

These documents are not easier to obtain than a REAL ID license or passport, so they are mainly useful if you already have one for another reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly domestically with a regular (non-REAL ID) driver's license?

No. As of May 2025, TSA requires a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, passport card, or military ID for domestic flights. A standard driver's license without the REAL ID marking will not work, even if it is current and valid for driving.

Is a passport card the same as a passport for flying?

A passport card works for domestic flights and land or sea travel to nearby countries. It does not work for international air travel. If you plan to fly to Europe, Asia, or anywhere outside North America, you need a full passport, not a card.

How long does it take to get a REAL ID license?

It depends on your state. Some issue them the same day; others take four to six weeks. Check your state DMV's website for the current timeline. If you need to fly soon, a passport card may be faster.

What if I lost my passport and need to fly next week?

You can explore for an expedited passport replacement at a passport agency or acceptance facility. Expedited service takes about one week but costs extra. If you have a REAL ID license, you can fly domestically without a passport while you wait for the replacement.

Do I need a REAL ID license to drive across state lines?

No. A regular driver's license is valid for driving anywhere in the U.S. REAL ID is required only for flying domestically and for entering federal buildings. You do not need it to drive.