Jazmin Li
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. According to the TSA, expired IDs are currently accepted up to one year after expiration, but only for certain forms of identification. This means that, in some cases, it is acceptable to fly domestically within the United States with an expired driver's license. However, if it has been more than a year since the ID expired, individuals will need another form of acceptable ID, such as a passport or passport card.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I use an expired driver's license at the airport? | Yes, it is possible to fly domestically within the United States with an expired driver's license under certain conditions. |
| How long after the expiration date is the ID acceptable? | TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to one year after expiration. Some sources mention that TSA used to accept IDs expired for 3 or 6 months after the expiration date. |
| What other documents can be used as proof of identification? | Birth certificate, electric bill, voter registration card, credit cards, tax forms, passport, passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. Department of Defense ID, federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID, etc. |
| What if I don't have acceptable identification? | Passengers without acceptable identification may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening. They may be asked to complete an identity verification process which includes providing information such as their name and current address. |
| What if my ID is not REAL ID-compliant? | State-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports starting May 7, 2025. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA acceptance of expired IDs
The TSA has specific requirements for identification at airport checkpoints. Adult passengers aged 18 and above must present valid identification to travel. The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice, and the TSA recommends that travellers check the list before arriving at the airport.
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers with non-compliant IDs should carry an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or obtain a state-issued REAL ID.
The TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year after the expiration date for domestic flights within the United States. However, travellers with expired IDs may be subject to additional screening and are advised to allow extra time at the airport.
It is important to note that temporary driver's licenses are not considered acceptable forms of identification by the TSA.
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REAL ID compliance
As per the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, minimum security standards were established for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. Starting May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. This means that if you are using a driver's license to fly domestically, it will need to be a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID.
REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification.
Passengers who do not present a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative will not be permitted through the security checkpoint. They will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. To avoid this, passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
It is worth noting that the TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to one year after expiration for domestic travel within the United States. However, if it has been more than a year since your ID expired, you will need another form of acceptable ID, and you may be subject to extra security checks.
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State-issued identification
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers with non-compliant IDs will need to travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
Until then, the TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year after expiration for domestic flights within the United States. This means that if it has been less than a year since your state-issued ID expired, you can use it to fly domestically. However, if it has been more than a year, you will need to bring another form of acceptable ID, such as a passport.
It is important to note that a temporary driver's license is not considered an acceptable form of identification by the TSA. Additionally, if you are using an expired driver's license, it is recommended that you allow for extra time at the airport, as you may be subject to additional security checks.
To ensure a smooth check-in and security screening process, it is advisable to check the TSA website for the latest information on acceptable forms of identification and to arrive at the airport a couple of hours early, especially during rush hours.
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Additional security checks
While it is possible to fly domestically within the United States with an expired driver's license, it is important to note that you may be subjected to additional security checks. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to ensure you are prepared for these additional checks:
- Allow Extra Time: When travelling with an expired license, it is advisable to allocate extra time for security checks. The TSA recommends arriving at the airport a couple of hours early, especially during peak hours, to accommodate for any potential delays caused by additional screening.
- Prepare Alternative Forms of Identification: Although an expired license may be accepted, it is always beneficial to have other forms of identification with you. This could include a passport, passport card, birth certificate, voter registration card, or other acceptable forms of ID as outlined by the TSA. Having these alternatives can help streamline the verification process and reduce delays.
- Be Prepared for Manual Checks: If the body scanner or metal detector is triggered, you will undergo a manual check by a security employee. This typically involves a pat-down or the use of a hand scanner. To expedite this process, wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove and put back on. Avoid metal accessories such as belts or jewellery, as these may require removal during the check.
- Organise Your Hand Baggage: Keep all items that require scanning, such as liquids and electronics, in easily accessible places within your hand baggage. Good organisation not only saves time but also reduces the risk of forgetting to retrieve your belongings after the security check.
- Follow Liquid Restrictions: Ensure that all liquids are in containers no larger than 100ml and are packed in a transparent, resealable bag. This compliance with international safety guidelines makes it easier for security personnel to inspect your liquids.
- Report Suspicious Activities: As part of the TSA's layered security approach, passengers are encouraged to report any unattended bags or packages, individuals with threatening items, or anyone attempting to enter restricted areas. Your vigilance can help enhance the safety of all travellers.
- Understand REAL ID Requirements: Starting May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Ensure that your ID complies with REAL ID standards or consider enrolling for a state-issued REAL ID through your local DMV office.
By following these instructions and staying informed about the latest security guidelines, you can confidently navigate additional security checks when travelling with an expired driver's license.
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Alternative forms of ID
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
The TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year after expiration. If it has been more than a year since your ID expired, you will need another form of acceptable ID. Here are some alternative forms of ID that may be accepted by the TSA:
- Passport
- Passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
- Work security badge with your photo
- Credit cards
- Checkbook
- Costco card or Costco membership card
- Utility bills or a magazine with your name and address
- Marriage license
- Educational diploma
- Birth certificate
- Voter registration card
- Electric bill
Note that a temporary driver’s license is not an acceptable form of ID. If you are using an expired driver’s license, allow yourself extra time, as you may be subject to extra security checks.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on where you are travelling and how long the license has been expired. In the U.S., TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to one year after expiration for domestic flights. From May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant licenses will be accepted.
You will need another form of acceptable ID, such as a passport, passport card, or DHS trusted traveller cards.
It is always good to carry as many identity-affirming documents as possible, such as your birth certificate, credit cards, voter registration card, etc.
