Real ID vs. driver's license: What you should know

As previously mentioned, starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require American travelers to have a Real ID for domestic flights.

Travelers who have passed through U.S. airports recently might recall seeing signs at security checkpoints about the Real ID Act. Initially intended to be implemented in 2008, the law's enforcement has been postponed multiple times.

Wondering if you can still fly with just a regular driver's license if you haven't obtained a Real ID yet?

Here’s everything you should know about the forthcoming Real ID requirement to ensure your travel experience is seamless.

What does the Real ID Act entail?

In 2005, Congress enacted the Real ID Act following the 9/11 Commission's suggestion that the federal government establish clearer "standards for issuing identification sources, including driver's licenses."

This legislation created a standardized set of requirements for driver's licenses and other government-issued ID cards. It also barred agencies from accepting IDs that fail to comply with the Real ID Act standards.

A primary aim of the act was to enhance security in commercial aviation by making it more challenging for individuals to acquire fraudulent documents for boarding flights.

When issuing Real IDs, government agencies will mandate additional documentation, and these IDs are designed to be more sophisticated and harder to counterfeit.

The implementation of the law has spanned two decades due to the varying standards and procedures for issuing photo IDs across different states. The law has faced criticism from several states and the American Civil Liberties Union, which argue that it represents federal overreach.

The Real ID Act is set to officially take effect on May 7, 2025, leaving you with less than a year to ensure you have a compliant Real ID or to make arrangements to obtain one.

How can you determine if you possess a Real ID?

Given that this law has been established for some time, many states have begun issuing Real IDs ahead of the federal deadline, meaning you may already hold a Real ID.

Fortunately, there are a few simple methods to check. Typically, IDs featuring a star or star cutout are compliant with Real ID standards.

If your ID lacks a star or features phrases like "federal limits apply" or "not for federal identification," it indicates that you do not possess a Real ID.

Every U.S. state, along with Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, is issuing compliant IDs.

However, living in a state that offers a Real ID doesn't guarantee you will automatically obtain one. You may be required to submit additional documentation, wait for processing, or pay a higher fee.

It's important to verify if your ID meets the compliance requirements. If you're still uncertain, the DHS offers a quick quiz on its website to help determine if your ID is compliant.

Can I still use my driver's license to fly within the U.S.?

Once the Real ID Act is in effect, travelers will not be permitted to pass through Transportation Security Administration checkpoints without a Real ID. While a standard driver's license won't suffice for domestic air travel, you can still use a U.S. passport or other TSA-approved identification.

If you choose not to upgrade your driver's license and lack a Real ID, you can still utilize one of the following alternatives:

• U.S. passport card
• DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, Nexus, SENTRI, FAST)
• Permanent resident card
• U.S. Department of Defense identification card
• Border-crossing card
• Enhanced driver's license issued by the state
• Photo ID from a federally recognized tribal nation/Indian tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Passport issued by a foreign government
• Provincial driver's license from Canada or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services employment authorization card (I-766)
• U.S. merchant mariner credential

Travelers under the age of 18 are not required to present identification when traveling with an adult companion, and this rule will remain unchanged under the Real ID Act.

Do I need a Real ID if I’m part of PreCheck or Global Entry?

Yes. Although your Global Entry card is an acceptable form of identification, you must carry it (or another compliant photo ID) while traveling, regardless of your enrollment in these programs. The TSA PreCheck card is not considered valid.

If my state complies with Real ID, does that mean my driver's license is acceptable?

Not necessarily. Just because your state issues compliant IDs does not guarantee you have one. Look for the star or star cutout to verify your ID's compliance.

The Real ID regulation mandates that states must recertify their compliance with the act every three years, on a rolling basis, as outlined by the DHS.

Do I need a Real ID to fly if I’m under 18?

No, minors traveling with an adult companion do not need to show a photo ID (although their companion does).

What are the costs associated with obtaining a Real ID compared to a driver's license?

The fees for Real IDs and driver's licenses differ by state, typically ranging from about $10 to $85 for Real IDs and $24 to $30 for standard driver's licenses.

In summary

If your driver's license already meets Real ID standards, you have no concerns, as these upcoming changes won't impact you. However, if your license does not comply with the Real ID Act, it’s advisable to upgrade it promptly to avoid crowds and lengthy wait times as the deadline approaches next year.