Ruth Haines
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports in the US. The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued IDs and driver's licenses, and travelers are now required to present a REAL ID-compliant ID or an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, to pass through TSA checkpoints. State IDs that are REAL ID-compliant are marked with a star in the top right corner.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| State ID card accepted at airports | Yes, but it must be REAL ID-compliant |
| REAL ID-compliant ID | Has a gold star in the top right corner |
| Alternative forms of ID | Passport |
| TSA requirements for children under 18 | No ID required, unless unaccompanied and eligible for TSA PreCheck |
| TSA acceptance of expired IDs | Up to two years after expiration |
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What You'll Learn
State IDs and driver's licenses are equivalent for airport use
If a traveler's ID is not REAL ID-compliant, they will need to present another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or they may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to two years after their expiration date. However, this does not apply to IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant, as these are no longer accepted as of May 7, 2025.
State IDs and driver's licenses that are REAL ID-compliant are equivalent and can be used interchangeably for airport security. The difference between the two is that a driver's license grants driving privileges, whereas a state ID does not. However, for matters unrelated to driving, the two forms of identification are equivalent.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant state ID or driver's license, individuals can apply through their state DMV offices. The process and required documentation may vary depending on the state, but generally, individuals will need to provide proof of identity and proof of residency.
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REAL ID-compliant state IDs
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports in the US. This means that passengers must travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued REAL ID, which can be obtained through state DMV offices.
To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must provide documentation showing proof of their full legal name and date of birth, Social Security number, and two documents proving state residency. The specific documentation required varies slightly between states, so it is recommended to check the state's DMV website for the exact requirements.
It is important to note that children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling within the US, as long as they are accompanied by an adult with compliant documentation. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable form of ID to receive expedited screening.
While the REAL ID requirement has been enforced since May 2025, there may be some confusion among travelers regarding the appearance of REAL ID-compliant licenses, as the design varies by state. To identify a REAL ID-compliant license, look for a star icon in the upper portion of the card. If the card reads "Not for Federal Identification," "Federal Limits Apply," or "Not for REAL ID Act Purposes," it is not compliant.
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TSA requirements for ID
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers must travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. A State ID card is good to fly, as it is the same as a Driver's License but without the driving privileges.
The TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to two years after expiration. TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and IDs.
The following are acceptable forms of ID:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- 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
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
To apply for TSA PreCheck, you must provide an original or certified copy of identity/citizenship status documentation. The names on all documents must match exactly with the name provided on the application. If you have legally changed your name, you must provide an original or certified name change document (such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree) in addition to the required documentation.
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TSA identity verification processes
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers without a REAL ID-compliant ID must 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. Passengers without acceptable identification or those who decline to cooperate with the identity verification process will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
The TSA strongly encourages passengers to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure they have acceptable ID. REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) are acceptable forms of ID. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification. State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID), U.S. passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, and U.S. Department of Defense IDs are also accepted. An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs), is another option.
TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration for the above-listed forms of identification. TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
Digital IDs are now accepted at more than 250 airports for identity verification through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. However, passengers must still carry an acceptable compliant physical ID for verification. A mobile driver's license is a type of digital ID issued by a state and stored on a mobile electronic device. Digital IDs issued by non-governmental entities based on information from governmental or non-governmental sources are also accepted.
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REAL ID-compliant state IDs and TSA PreCheck
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs and driver's licenses that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. This means that every state and territory resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, or another acceptable form of identification, to board a commercial aircraft. This applies to TSA PreCheck passengers as well. If a passenger presents a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant and does not have another acceptable alternative form of ID, they will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. The TSA officer may ask for information such as their name and current address to confirm their identity. If their identity is confirmed, they will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where they may be subject to additional screening.
REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card: a gold star in the top right corner or another marking indicating REAL ID compliance. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won't be accepted as proof of identity to board a commercial aircraft. All states, the District of Columbia, and the five territories are REAL ID-compliant and issuing REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and IDs. To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, individuals can visit their state's driver's licensing agency website or a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person.
It's important to note that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. TSA also accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration.
While REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs are required for boarding commercial aircraft, there are alternative forms of identification that are accepted. These include a passport or passport card, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), or other acceptable alternative documents. EDLs issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use a state ID at the airport. However, it must be REAL ID-compliant.
REAL ID-compliant IDs adhere to the REAL ID Act, which establishes minimum security standards for state-issued IDs. Your ID will have a gold star in the top right corner if it is REAL ID-compliant.
If your ID is not REAL ID-compliant, you will need to present another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport. If you do not have an alternative ID, you may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
Yes, children under 18 travelling within the United States are not required to provide identification. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID.
Yes, driver's licenses are acceptable forms of ID, as long as they are REAL ID-compliant.
