The real deal on the REAL ID: Do I need a REAL ID to fly?

03.18.25 by Travelex Insurance

Image credit: Getty Images

Have you heard the REAL ID Act news? Here’s what you should know if you’re planning a trip after the deadline.

If you’re taking a flight after May 7, 2025, you’ll need to have a REAL ID. Don’t have one? Find out how you can get one so your upcoming trip is as smooth as possible.

What's a REAL ID?

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, which sets minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards at airports. Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers at airports must have a REAL ID to get through security and board a flight. The REAL ID is basically your ID leveled up — it’s a government-standardized version of your driver’s license or state ID card that meets higher security requirements.

Why does this matter? Once the REAL ID travel requirement date arrives, if you don’t have a REAL ID and are flying domestically (within the U.S.), you’ll need your passport or another TSA-accepted form of identification to take your trip. It may seem like one more thing to tackle on our travel to-do list, but it’s part of a federal law aimed at making our skies safer — so you can feel extra confident while you’re cruising through the air.

How do I know if I have a REAL ID?

It looks like a driver’s license, but REAL IDs have a star at the top of the card. Some states have different markings, so always double-check your state’s requirements. To find out what the REAL ID card looks like in your state, go to the Department of Homeland Security page, scroll down to the U.S. map, and click on your state.

Do I need a REAL ID?

If you plan to fly within the U.S. after the May 7, 2025, deadline, you’ll need a REAL ID to pass through security (unless you intend to use a valid passport or another accepted form of identification).

Here are some examples of other documents you can use to board a flight instead of a REAL ID:

State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
U.S. passport
U.S. passport card
DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents

A valid passport is still required to travel internationally and cross any U.S. borders. You also need a REAL ID to visit a secure federal facility, like a military base, without a military ID.

Who doesn’t need a REAL ID?

You won’t need one for your kids if they’re under 18 years old, or to fly internationally (you’ll need your passport instead), vote, serve jury duty, or drive.

When do I need a REAL ID to fly?

Starting May 7, 2025, you'll need to have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the U.S.

Important: The TSA won't accept temporary or interim REAL IDs from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If you can’t get a REAL ID before the deadline and need to fly domestically on or after May 7, bring one of the other accepted documents listed above instead.

How do I get a REAL ID?

If you don’t already have a REAL ID, you’ll need to visit your local DMV with these documents:

1. Proof of identity: This could be your birth certificate or a valid passport.

2. Proof of social security number: your Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub.

3. Proof of residency: Bring at least two documents showing where you live, like utility bills or a rental agreement.

4. Your current driver’s license or ID: if you’re upgrading your existing ID.

Pro tip: Check your state DMV’s website for specific instructions because requirements can vary depending on your location.

What if I don’t have any acceptable forms of identification at the airport?

Don’t panic just yet! If you arrive at the airport without an acceptable form of ID, the TSA may still allow you to proceed through security — but it’s not guaranteed.

You’ll need to provide additional information to confirm your identity, such as answering personal questions or presenting other forms of documentation like a credit card or utility bill. Be prepared for this process to take extra time (allow for at least three hours), and remember, it’s always better to have your REAL ID or an alternate approved ID ready to avoid unnecessary delays or complications.

Don’t wait until the REAL ID travel requirement date to get yours

We know juggling travel prep can be enough without adding “upgrade my ID” to the mix, but you don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute. Set yourself up for travel success by getting your REAL ID squared away now. After all, you have more exciting things to plan, like where to go and what you’ll do in your destination.