What You Need to Know About REAL ID Before You Fly

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Beginning May 7, 2025, travelers in the United States must have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights.

If you plan to fly within the U.S., this is something worth checking now, not the week before your trip.

A REAL ID looks similar to a standard driver’s license but includes a star in the upper corner. If your license does not have that star, it may not be compliant for air travel.

Here are a few important things to understand:

A passport can always be used in place of a REAL ID for domestic flights.
Children under 18 do not need identification when traveling with an adult within the U.S.
If you do not have a REAL ID or passport, you may not be allowed through TSA security after the enforcement date.

If you are unsure whether your current license qualifies, take a moment to look at it. If you do not see the star, visit your state’s DMV website to review requirements.

Getting a REAL ID typically requires documentation such as:

Proof of identity
Proof of Social Security number
Two documents showing proof of residence

Processing times and appointment availability can vary by state, so it is best to plan ahead.

Like passports, identification requirements are part of protecting your travel investment. Making sure your documentation is current helps avoid last-minute stress at the airport.

If you have questions about identification requirements for an upcoming trip, it is always better to ask early. Travel should feel organized and manageable, and documentation is part of that process.