The REAL ID Act
and What It Means for You

A license or card issued by a REAL ID-compliant state by the REAL ID security standards. The license or card must include the REAL ID-compliant star marking (see below). 

By May 7, 2025, every domestic air traveler flying within the United States will require a REAL ID-compliant license or accepted form of identification.

You apply for one at your local driver's licensing agency.

To obtain a REAL ID in the majority of states, you'll need to provide at least the following:

Documentation that shows your
Full Legal Name
Date of Birth
Social Security Number

Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence

Lawful Status as a US Citizen

BEFORE YOU GO IN PERSON: Check your state’s driver’s licensing website to find exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID, as some states may impose additional requirements.

Beginning May 7, 2025, every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification to board commercial aircraft.

TSA will continue to accept several forms of identity documents, including:

• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards. These will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. FYI: Most EDLs do not contain the star marking.

For more information on acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please visit TSA’s website at https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification