REAL ID Requirements: What You Need to Fly in the U.S.

This guide is for U.S. travelers who aren’t sure whether their driver’s license works at airport security, or what to use instead.

If you fly within the United States, the ID you show at security has to meet federal REAL ID standards, or be another document TSA accepts. Checking your card now saves a stressful moment at the airport.

The quick answer

TSA says that beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 or older needs a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the U.S.¹ REAL ID is also required to visit certain federal facilities.²

How to tell if your license is REAL ID

TSA says REAL ID-compliant licenses are marked by a star at the top of the card.¹ The star’s design varies by state.

One exception: state-issued enhanced driver’s licenses don’t have a star, but TSA accepts them.¹

If your license doesn’t have a star

You can still fly with another acceptable ID. TSA names examples such as a valid passport, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license or a U.S. military ID.¹ Check TSA’s full list before your trip if you plan to use something else.

Our advice: if you don’t have a REAL ID yet, start the application with your state’s DMV well before you travel. States ask for original documents proving identity, Social Security number and address, and appointment wait times vary.

What about kids?

TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to show ID when traveling with a companion within the U.S. The companion needs acceptable ID.¹ Airlines may have their own rules for minors, so check with yours.

Your pre-trip check

• Look for the star at the top of your license.
• No star? Pack your passport or another accepted ID.
• Enhanced licenses work even without a star.
• Kids under 18 traveling with an adult don’t need ID for TSA.