Federal agency · U.S. Department of Homeland Security
TSA operates security screening and publishes identification guidance for airport checkpoints. States and territories—not TSA—issue driver’s licenses and identification cards, including REAL ID-compliant cards.
What TSA manages
- Passenger and baggage screening at U.S. airport security checkpoints.
- Official guidance on acceptable identification for adult travelers.
- Federal REAL ID enforcement at TSA airport checkpoints.
- Transportation-security programs involving airports, airlines, surface transportation, and other transportation operators.
- Passenger-support services such as TSA Cares for travelers who may need screening assistance.
What TSA does not manage
- TSA does not issue REAL ID cards, driver’s licenses, or state identification cards.
- TSA does not decide which documents a state or territory accepts for a REAL ID application.
- TSA does not issue U.S. passports or immigration documents.
- Airlines—not TSA—control tickets, reservations, baggage fees, and boarding requirements that are separate from security screening.
REAL ID and identification
REAL ID enforcement at TSA checkpoints began on May 7, 2025. Adults should check TSA’s current acceptable-identification page before travel. A REAL ID-compliant state card is one option; TSA lists other acceptable forms of identification, including U.S. passports. The issuing state or territory controls the application, documents, fee, appointment, and delivery of a REAL ID card.
Official public channels
- Transportation Security Administration
- About TSA
- TSA REAL ID information
- Acceptable identification at the TSA checkpoint
- Passenger support and TSA Cares