Since May 7, 2025, adults using a state-issued license or ID at a TSA checkpoint must present a REAL ID-compliant card. A passport or another identification accepted by TSA can be used instead.
Check whether your current card is already compliant
A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state identification card normally carries the jurisdiction’s REAL ID marking, commonly a star near the upper-right corner. Check your issuing agency’s website if the marking is unclear. An Enhanced Driver’s License issued by an eligible state is also federally acceptable for REAL ID purposes.
Decide whether you need to upgrade
You do not have to obtain a REAL ID merely to hold a driver’s license or state ID. A standard card may still be available and remains valid for purposes allowed by state law. However, a noncompliant state card cannot be used by itself for federal purposes covered by REAL ID, including TSA screening for domestic commercial flights and entry to certain secure federal facilities.
Use the agency for the state or territory where you reside
REAL ID cards are issued by state and territorial driver-licensing agencies. The agency name may be DMV, BMV, MVD, Department of Public Safety, Secretary of State, Department of Revenue, or another title. Start with the official USAGov directory and follow the link to your jurisdiction.
Review the exact document list before visiting
Federal standards require the issuing jurisdiction to verify identity, date of birth, Social Security information or ineligibility, lawful status, and the address of principal residence. The exact documents, number of residency proofs, name-change evidence, appointment rules, fees, and whether originals are required depend on the jurisdiction.
Resolve name differences first
If the name on your identity document does not match your current legal name, your licensing agency may require a complete chain of certified marriage certificates, divorce decrees, adoption records, or court orders. Some applicants may also need to update the Social Security record before the state can verify the application.
Apply through the official state or territory channel
Some jurisdictions let you start online, upload information, or schedule an appointment, but the agency may still require an in-person visit and original or certified documents. Use only the official government site or a provider expressly linked by that agency.
Plan for domestic air travel
- REAL ID or another acceptable ID: present the original document at the TSA checkpoint.
- Passport: a valid U.S. passport or another TSA-accepted passport document can be used for domestic screening.
- No acceptable ID: travelers age 18 or older may use TSA ConfirmID. As of this review, it costs $45 and the verification is valid for a 10-day travel period. Payment does not replace the need to complete TSA identity verification, and extra time may be required.
- Children under 18: TSA generally does not require identification for domestic travel, although the airline may have its own requirements.
Keep separate purposes separate
REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel. It also does not change state eligibility for driving, prove citizenship in every context, or automatically satisfy an organization’s separate identification requirements.
Official sources
- USAGov — Get a REAL ID and use it for travel
- USAGov — State and territory motor vehicle services
- TSA — REAL ID
- TSA — Acceptable identification at checkpoints
- TSA — TSA ConfirmID