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It’s official: if you fly domestically within the US, you’ll need a Real ID starting on May 7, 2025. Your old driver’s license will no longer work from that date. Just a real ID or another acceptable form of identification will help you pass the Transportation Security Authority security check.
He Real ID Lawwhich applies consistent and secure standards for identification used in air travel and entry into federal facilities, was approved in 2007. After multiple delays, it is scheduled to go into effect next May. U.S. residents 18 years or older will need to present an enhanced driver’s license with Real ID or other federally approved identification, such as a passport, to fly domestically.
Here’s everything you need to know about Real ID, including where to apply, what you’ll need to bring, and what happens if you don’t have one after the 2025 deadline. For more information on travel rules, find out how renew your passport online and the steps to take if your flight is delayed or cancelled.
What is a Real ID and how do I know if I have one?
Real IDs will be required at airport security starting next spring.
Basically, Real ID is an upgraded version of your standard driver’s license or state ID card, intended to help authorities combat terrorism and identity fraud.
Today, all 50 states and the District of Columbia meet Real ID standards, the Department of Homeland Security said. If you recently renewed your driver’s license, you likely already meet the requirements. If it’s been a few years, you’ll probably need to update it.
Real ID approved licenses will have one of these stars in the upper right corner.
You can tell by looking at your license: if there is a gold, black, or white star in the top right corner, you have a Real ID. (There are some minor variations: California places a white star above the state’s bear logo, while Maine places it in an outline of the state.)
How do I apply for a Real ID card in my state?
Whichever state agency issued your driver’s license is responsible for distributing Real IDs. The documentation required will vary, but generally includes proof of identity and status as a US resident or citizen, proof of your Social Security number, and multiple proofs of your current address.
Originals or hard copies of documentation (birth certificate, Social Security card, US passport) are required, and photocopies or screenshots are not accepted. check your state driver licensing agency website for more details.
After you apply, you should receive a temporary paper ID until your Real ID-compatible license arrives in the mail approximately three to four weeks later.
With some exceptions, the cost of obtaining a Real ID-compatible license is the same as renewing your non-driver license or identification card.
What happens if I don’t get a Real ID by the deadline?
Starting in May 2025, unless the deadline is extended again, federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will accept only Real ID-approved licenses and identification cards “for purposes of accessing federal facilities,” according to the DHS.
That includes airport security checkpoints.
Without one, American adults will have to show a valid passport, even to fly within the country, or one of these other forms of identification:
An example of a driver’s license with the Real ID logo.
Not having a Real ID-compliant license will not affect other uses of a driver’s license, including verifying an individual’s ability to operate a vehicle or purchase alcohol, firearms or tobacco.
For more flight tips, see how you can track flight cancellations on your iPhone and why there are better travel card options than the Chase Sapphire Reserve.
