All You Need to Know About Obtaining a Real ID

Effective May 7, 2025, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will mandate that travelers show a Real ID-compliant driver's license to fly domestically. This is crucial: Failure to present a Real ID, valid passport, or a trusted traveler program card, such as Global Entry or Nexus, will result in being unable to board your flight. Here’s what to understand about ensuring you have the correct ID and how to obtain one if you don’t.

What is a Real ID?

A Real ID refers to a driver's license or identification card that complies with specific security standards set by the Real ID Act of 2005, based on recommendations from the 9/11 Commission following the September 11 attacks. These updated standards aim to enhance the security of identification cards.

What is the deadline for obtaining a Real ID?

As of May 7, 2025 (the deadline has been postponed multiple times), all U.S. travelers aged 18 and over (children flying domestically with an adult do not need to show ID) must present a driver’s license that meets Real ID compliance when going through airport security.

If you lack a compliant ID by this date, you will need to present another acceptable form of identification for domestic flights, such as a valid passport, permanent resident card, or a Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler program card like Global Entry or Nexus.

What are the requirements for obtaining a Real ID?

Each state independently manages the issuance of driver’s licenses and identification cards, leading to unique Real ID requirements in each state. Generally, the primary difference in obtaining a Real ID-compliant license compared to a noncompliant one lies in the documentation you must submit.

For example, to acquire a Real ID in California, you need to schedule an appointment at a California Department of Motor Vehicles office (you cannot get a Real ID online), present an identifying document like a passport or birth certificate, provide proof of your Social Security number such as your Social Security card or a W-2 form, and demonstrate California residency, as detailed on the Real ID explainer portal on the California DMV website.

New York State provides a helpful Real ID guidance tool that assists users in deciding whether to obtain a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or a standard one, along with the different procedures for each option.

Each state offers a similar resource, and a quick online search for your state along with “Real ID” will lead you to all the essential information you need.

How can I tell if I have a Real ID?

According to the TSA, compliant IDs usually feature a star (either gold or black) in the upper section of the card. In California, compliant IDs display a star within an image of a bear. The agency advises individuals who are uncertain about their ID’s compliance to reach out to their state’s driver’s license agency for guidance on obtaining a compliant card.

As states have started to issue Real ID-compliant licenses, they mark compliant IDs with a gold or black star. Noncompliant IDs, on the other hand, are labeled with tags stating phrases like “federal limits apply” or “not for federal ID,” indicating they do not qualify as Real IDs. (These markings have only been implemented as states began offering Real IDs. Before that, there were no clear indicators.)

Every U.S. state, the District of Columbia, and all five U.S. territories now issue Real ID-compliant licenses and identification cards.

Is it possible to fly without a Real ID?

Starting May 7, 2025, if you cannot present a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid passport or U.S. military ID, you will be denied boarding. Your ability to fly will be severely restricted.

If you travel internationally and already possess a passport, this won’t pose much of a problem since your passport can temporarily replace a Real ID-compliant driver’s license. However, if you intend to fly domestically after May 7, 2025, and your passport is expired or you don’t have one, obtaining a Real ID will be essential.

This article was initially published in April 2021 and has been updated with the latest information.