Why You Need a Real ID to Fly Within the US
Short answer
You need a Real ID to fly within the US because the federal government requires it as the minimum identification standard for boarding domestic flights. A Real ID is a specially marked state driver’s license or identification card that meets federal security rules designed to confirm your identity more rigorously than a regular ID. Without it or another approved ID, you cannot pass airport security for domestic flights.
What exactly is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a driver’s license or state-issued identification card that complies with federal standards set by the Real ID Act. Unlike a regular driver’s license, a Real ID has to meet specific security requirements to help prevent identity fraud and improve airport security. To get a Real ID, you must provide extra documentation proving your identity, Social Security number, and residency. The Real ID is marked with a star or other symbol in the upper right corner of the card, making it easy to identify. This marking shows the cardholder has gone through the enhanced verification process. The purpose of the Real ID is to provide secure identification that federal agencies, like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), require for certain activities such as boarding airplanes or entering federal buildings.
For example, if you have a regular driver’s license from your state that does not have this star, it likely does not meet Real ID standards. Your state DMV typically explains how to tell if your ID is a Real ID, and you can also check online resources to confirm your ID’s status.
How does the Real ID requirement for flying work?
When you fly on a commercial airline within the United States, the TSA requires you to show a form of ID that meets federal standards before you can get through airport security and board your flight. If your driver’s license or state ID is not Real ID-compliant, TSA will not accept it for domestic flights. This means you must either get a Real ID or bring another federally accepted ID, such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or permanent resident card, to fly.
For example, imagine you are planning a trip from Chicago to Miami. When you arrive at the airport security checkpoint, you must show your ID. If your ID has the Real ID star, TSA accepts it and lets you proceed. If it does not, TSA will require you to present a valid passport or another accepted ID, or you will be denied boarding. This applies to all adults 18 and older. Children under 18 do not need to show identification when traveling with a companion.
Why is having a Real ID important for travelers?
Having a Real ID or an alternative federally accepted ID is important to avoid delays or being turned away at the airport. Many people still use regular driver’s licenses that don’t meet Real ID standards, which means they risk being unable to fly domestically without another form of ID. Arriving at the airport without proper ID can cause stress, missed flights, or expensive last-minute changes.
For instance, if you plan a weekend getaway and don’t have a Real ID, but only a regular license, you need to bring your passport or military ID to avoid issues. If you forget or don’t have these, you won’t be able to board your plane. It’s especially important for people who rarely fly or who don’t drive but use state ID cards as their primary form of identification. Preparing early by checking your ID’s status and applying for a Real ID ahead of time can save time, money, and frustration.
What other forms of identification can people confuse with a Real ID?
A few types of IDs are often mixed up with the Real ID:
- Regular Driver’s License or State ID: These do not have the required star and won’t be accepted for flights after the enforcement date.
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL): Offered by some states, EDLs allow you to cross U.S. land borders with Canada or Mexico but are a separate program from Real ID. EDLs can serve as a Real ID but have additional border-crossing features.
- Passport or Passport Card: Always accepted for domestic flights and international travel, passports are federal documents separate from Real IDs.
- Military ID: Accepted for flying and federal access but not the same as a Real ID.
- Permanent Resident Card: Accepted federally but separate from Real ID.
Knowing these differences helps you avoid surprises at the airport. For example, someone might think their regular license is enough, but if it lacks the Real ID symbol, TSA won’t accept it for boarding a plane.
What specific steps do you take to get a Real ID?
Getting a Real ID involves visiting your state’s DMV or issuing agency with certain documents. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check Your Current ID: Look for a star or other Real ID marking. If unsure, visit your DMV website or call them.
- Gather Required Documents: Proof of identity (e.g., original or certified birth certificate, valid U.S. passport) Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with your SSN) Two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements with your name and address)
- Make an Appointment: Many states require or recommend appointments for Real ID applications due to increased visit times.
- Go to the DMV: Bring original documents (no photocopies), complete the application, and pay the fee.
- Receive Your New Card: Some states issue the Real ID on the spot; others mail it within a few weeks.
For example, if you live in Texas and need a Real ID, visit the Texas DMV website to confirm document requirements and schedule an appointment. Preparing carefully with all documents saves time and avoids repeated trips.
What if you don’t get a Real ID in time?
If you don’t have a Real ID or an alternative federally accepted ID when flying domestically, TSA will not let you board your plane. However, you can still fly if you bring other accepted documents like a valid passport, passport card, military ID, or permanent resident card. If you don’t have any of these, you cannot fly commercially within the US.
For example, someone who only has a regular driver’s license without Real ID compliance and no passport will be denied boarding at the security checkpoint. This situation can cause missed flights and additional costs to change travel plans. Planning to get a Real ID or passport well before your next flight avoids these problems.
What can you do to prepare now?
To be ready for flying and other federal ID uses, follow these simple steps:
- Verify your ID: Check if your current driver’s license or state ID has the Real ID star or symbol.
- Gather documents: Collect your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency for your Real ID application.
- Schedule a DMV visit: Book an appointment to avoid long wait times.
- Consider alternatives: If you don’t drive or prefer not to get a Real ID, apply for a passport, which works for all flights and international travel.
- Inform family members: Make sure everyone who flies regularly, including teenagers when they turn 18, knows about the ID requirements.
- Keep your ID handy: Always carry your Real ID or accepted ID when traveling by air.
For example, if you plan to fly next year, start gathering your documents now and schedule a DMV appointment to avoid last-minute issues.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a regular driver’s license to fly?
After Real ID rules are enforced, a regular driver’s license without the Real ID star is not accepted for domestic flights. You need a Real ID or another federally accepted ID like a passport.
Is a Real ID the same as a passport?
No, a Real ID is a state-issued identification meeting federal standards for domestic air travel. A passport is a federal document needed for international travel but also accepted domestically.
Do children need a Real ID to fly?
Children under 18 do not need to show identification when traveling with an adult who has acceptable ID.
How much does it cost to get a Real ID?
Costs vary by state and are often similar to the fee for a standard driver’s license or ID card. Check your state DMV’s website for exact fees.
Can I use a military ID for flying?
Yes, a valid U.S. military ID is accepted for domestic flights and federal access in place of a Real ID.
What if I don’t have a Social Security number for my Real ID?
Some states may issue non-compliant IDs without a Social Security number, but these will not be valid for federal identification purposes like flying. Check your state DMV policies or consider a passport.