Jazmin Li
As of May 7, 2025, a driver's license that is not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as a valid form of identification at airports in the US. This means that a regular driver's license may not be sufficient for domestic flights and that travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, or other acceptable forms of federal identification. While some airports may accept mobile driver's licenses and ID passes saved on smartphones, it is recommended that travelers check the requirements of their specific airport and plan accordingly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of implementation | 7 May 2025 |
| Acceptable forms of ID | REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or other acceptable identification |
| Alternative identity verification process | Available but does not guarantee access to the security checkpoint |
| TSA's response to non-compliance | Denial of access to security checkpoint |
| TSA's response to identity verification failure | Denial of access to security checkpoint |
| TSA's response to non-cooperation | Denial of access to security checkpoint |
| TSA's response to minors without ID | Minors under 18 not required to provide ID when travelling within the U.S. |
| TSA's response to expired ID | Accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration |
| TSA's response to digital ID | Accepts mobile driver's licenses and ID passes saved on smartphones in select airports |
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What You'll Learn
- REAL ID-compliant licenses are required at TSA checkpoints from May 7, 2025
- Other acceptable forms of ID include passports, passport cards, and military IDs
- Digital IDs are accepted at select airports via mobile apps like Apple Wallet
- Physical IDs may not be needed with new airport technology like biometric data and facial recognition
- If you're checking a bag, you may not need ID, but TSA security will require identification
REAL ID-compliant licenses are required at TSA checkpoints from May 7, 2025
From May 7, 2025, all state and territory residents in the US will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to board a commercial aircraft. This means that a regular state-issued driver's license will not be accepted at TSA checkpoints unless it is REAL ID-compliant.
The REAL ID Act, enacted following a 9/11 Commission recommendation, sets minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards that federal agencies may accept for official purposes. These include boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, accessing certain federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants. The Act enhances the security of these documents and makes it harder for criminals and terrorists to forge them.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, individuals must go through their state DMV offices and present additional paperwork, such as a birth certificate, passport, social security card, and proof of residence in their state. The process is similar to renewing a license, but with a few extra steps. REAL ID-compliant licenses are now obtainable in all 50 states and US territories.
For those who do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, there will be an alternative identity verification process. However, this does not guarantee access to the security checkpoint, and travelers may still be denied entry. To avoid delays and potential issues at the airport, it is recommended that travelers obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or alternative ID before the deadline.
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Other acceptable forms of ID include passports, passport cards, and military IDs
As of May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers who plan to fly within the U.S. will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification to board commercial flights. State-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. This means that your regular old driver's license might not be accepted by the TSA for domestic flights unless you've obtained the correct REAL ID.
There are several other forms of ID that are accepted by the TSA for domestic flights, including passports, passport cards, and military IDs. U.S. passports or passport cards are federal IDs that are REAL ID-compliant and can be used as an alternative to a REAL ID driver's license. Passport cards are the same size as a driver's license and cost $65 for first-time applicants. Military IDs are also REAL ID-compliant and can be used in place of a driver's license when flying domestically.
In addition to passports, passport cards, and military IDs, other acceptable forms of ID for domestic flights include ID cards from federal "trusted traveler" programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST. Permanent resident cards, foreign government-issued passports, and federal IDs issued by a Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe are also accepted.
It's important to note that travelers without a REAL ID or an accepted alternative form of identification may be denied access to the security checkpoint. They may be directed to a separate area and may be subject to additional screening.
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Digital IDs are accepted at select airports via mobile apps like Apple Wallet
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 without a REAL ID-compliant license may undergo an alternative identity verification process, but this does not guarantee access to the security checkpoint. This is because the TSA may deny access to those who refuse to provide acceptable identification or cooperate with the verification process.
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports via mobile apps like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Major hubs, such as Los Angeles International Airport, Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport, New York JFK, and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, among many other facilities, all accept eligible digital IDs.
To use a Digital ID, travelers must add their acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to their phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or to their phone's digital wallet. They should follow the setup instructions from their device wallet or app before their trip to ensure it is ready to present at TSA checkpoints.
It is important to note that all passengers must still carry an acceptable compliant physical ID for verification. Facial comparison technology and digital IDs partially automate the ID and boarding pass verification process, making it more efficient and secure. The TSA only receives a passenger's digital identification information at TSA checkpoints with the passenger's consent.
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Physical IDs may not be needed with new airport technology like biometric data and facial recognition
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. This means that a regular driver's license may not be enough to get through security, even for a domestic flight. However, this doesn't mean that physical IDs are entirely obsolete. Passengers can use other acceptable forms of ID, such as a passport, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, or a state-issued REAL ID.
While physical IDs are still necessary, new airport technology is being introduced that may reduce our reliance on them in the future. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is exploring the use of biometric data and facial recognition technology for identity verification. This technology, known as TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, uses facial comparison to match a passenger's live facial image with a gallery of pre-staged photos that the passenger has previously provided to the government. Participation in this process is currently optional, and passengers can choose to opt-out of having their photo taken at any point.
Digital IDs are another form of technology that is being integrated into airport security. Mobile driver's licenses are a type of digital ID issued by a state and stored on a smartphone. They are more secure than physical IDs as they require biometric verification, such as facial recognition, before each transaction. Digital IDs also offer more privacy as passengers only share the information needed for identity verification. The TSA has started accepting digital IDs at select airports, and passengers can use apps like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or state-issued apps to store their IDs.
The use of biometric data and facial recognition technology, along with digital IDs, has the potential to revolutionize airport security and reduce the need for physical IDs. These technologies provide a more efficient, secure, and seamless travel experience. Passengers can expect faster identity verification and reduced points of contact, making their journey through the airport more convenient and modern. While physical IDs are still required as a backup, the advancement and widespread adoption of these technologies may eventually lead to a future where physical passports and driver's licenses are no longer necessary for air travel.
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If you're checking a bag, you may not need ID, but TSA security will require identification
As of May 7, 2025, a driver's license that is not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as a valid form of identification at TSA checkpoints. This means that a regular driver's license may not be sufficient for identification when checking a bag at an airport.
However, it's important to note that the TSA has alternative methods of identity verification for passengers who do not have the required identification documents. These methods may include collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed through these alternative methods, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening.
Additionally, the TSA is implementing digital ID technology and facial recognition technology at select airports. At these airports, you may be able to use a mobile driver's license or ID pass saved on your smartphone in apps like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or state-issued apps. Biometric data, such as facial recognition and fingerprints, is also being used at some airports, which may eliminate the need for physical IDs in the future.
It's always a good idea to check with the specific airport and the TSA for their latest requirements and accepted forms of identification. It is recommended to carry a valid ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or other acceptable identification, to ensure a smooth security screening process at the airport.
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Frequently asked questions
Your driver's license may not be accepted at the airport if it is not REAL ID-compliant. REAL ID is a new standard for state-issued identification documents that includes more stringent requirements for verifying a person's identity and right to residency.
REAL ID-compliant licenses have extra security measures that help to verify a person's identity and right to residency. They are obtainable at DMVs in all 50 states and US territories.
If you do not have a REAL ID, you may be denied access to the security checkpoint. You may be asked to complete an alternative identity verification process, but this does not guarantee access.
Alternatives to a REAL ID include a passport, passport card, Global Entry card, permanent resident card, foreign government-issued passport, or a federal ID issued by a Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe.
If you do not have any of the accepted forms of identification, you may be denied access to the security checkpoint. It is recommended that you speak with a TSA supervisor to understand your options.
