Alert: Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID-compliant identification is required for air travel. Learn more.

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REAL ID

Starting M‍ay ‍7, 2‍02‍5, all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID (such as a passport) to fly within the United States, as required by the Department of Homeland Security.

A REAL ID is a type of driver’s license or identification card that has been issued by a state that meets the REAL ID security standards set by the federal government. These standards were put in place to help improve the reliability and accuracy of state-issued identification documents.

Please check for a star and/or flag at the top of your license, or the word “Enhanced”, to ensure it’s REAL ID-compliant.

REAL ID regulation

The REAL ID Act of 2005 was passed by Congress to set standards for the issuance of driver’s licenses and identification cards. The act established minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits federal agencies, like TSA, from accepting licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.

What are the other acceptable forms of ID?

Please see this list for acceptable forms of ID by TSA: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.

How do I know if my ID is REAL ID-compliant?

Please check for a star and/or flag at the top of your license, or the word “Enhanced”, to ensure it’s REAL ID-compliant. If you are still not sure, you can also check with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV).

What happens if my ID is not REAL ID-compliant?

You can travel with other forms of ID (such as a passport). However, if you don’t have an acceptable form of ID, you will not be permitted through the TSA airport security checkpoint.

Do children (under 18) need a REAL ID?

No, children under 18 years of age do not need a REAL ID or photo identification for domestic travel. Please bring a government-issued ID, such as a birth certificate or passport, as proof of age for your lap child.

Where can I find out more information about REAL ID?

Please visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website for more information: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/about-real-id.