REAL ID EXPLAINED

Learn when a REAL ID is required, how it differs from a passport, and which identification documents you can use when flying.

EXPLORE REAL ID REQUIREMENTS

Before You Fly

Start With These Three REAL ID Essentials

REAL ID requirements can seem confusing, but the basics are straightforward. Before your next trip, make sure you understand these three important facts.

REAL ID Enforcement Has Begun

Since May 7, 2025, adults flying domestically must present either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another form of identification accepted by TSA.

A Passport Still Works

You do not have to obtain a REAL ID if you carry another TSA-accepted document, such as a valid U.S. Passport Book, Passport Card, military ID, or eligible trusted-traveler card.

REAL ID Is Not a Passport

A REAL ID may be used for certain federal identification purposes, including domestic air travel. It cannot replace a passport for international flights or international border entry.

Continue Reading

Travel Identification

Do I Need a REAL ID?

Adults age 18 and older generally need either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID or another form of identification accepted by TSA to pass through airport security for a domestic flight.

You Need Acceptable Identification—not Necessarily a REAL ID

A REAL ID is one convenient identification option for domestic airline travel, but it is not the only option. You may instead present another document accepted by TSA, such as a valid U.S. passport.

A standard state driver's license or identification card that is not REAL ID-compliant is no longer accepted by itself at TSA checkpoints.

REAL ID also applies to entry into certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants when federally acceptable identification is required.

The Simple Answer

You should obtain a REAL ID when you want to use your driver's license or state ID for domestic flights and do not plan to carry another TSA-accepted document.

Check your card: REAL ID-compliant licenses and state IDs generally display a star near the top. Card designs and markings vary by issuing state.

Which Identification Do You Need?

Use this chart as a general starting point for common travel situations.

Travel Situation REAL ID? What to Know
Domestic flight within the United States REAL ID or another TSA-accepted ID Adults age 18 and older must present acceptable identification at the TSA checkpoint.
Flight to Hawaii REAL ID or another TSA-accepted ID Hawaii is part of the United States, so this is domestic air travel.
Direct flight to Puerto Rico REAL ID or another TSA-accepted ID A direct trip from the mainland United States is generally treated as domestic travel.
International flight REAL ID is not sufficient A valid passport and any destination- specific entry documents are required.
International cruise Requirements vary Cruise documentation depends on the itinerary, citizenship, ports, and cruise line. REAL ID does not replace a passport.
Driving within the United States Usually not required A valid standard driver's license may still be used for ordinary driving privileges.
Certain federal facilities Federally accepted ID required A REAL ID or another federally accepted form of identification may be required.
Important: Entry and identification requirements can vary by itinerary, citizenship, airline, cruise line, government agency, and destination. Always verify requirements before departure.

What About Children?

TSA generally does not require children under age 18 to provide identification when traveling domestically with an adult companion. Airlines may have separate identification or age-verification policies.

What Can I Use Instead?

Examples include a valid U.S. passport book, passport card, permanent resident card, military ID, or an eligible trusted-traveler card such as Global Entry.

Check Your Identification Before Your Travel Date

Do not wait until you arrive at the airport to discover that your driver's license is not REAL ID-compliant.

Compare Your Options

Compare Your Options

REAL ID vs. Passport

A REAL ID and a passport can both be used at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights, but they are not interchangeable for every type of travel. The right document depends on where you are going and how you are traveling.

Domestic Convenience

REAL ID

A state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal REAL ID security standards.

  • Accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
  • Accepted for certain federal identification purposes
  • May also function as your driver's license
  • Not valid for international air travel
  • Does not establish eligibility to enter another country
Best for: Travelers who primarily fly within the United States and want to use their driver's license or state ID at airport security.
Most Flexible

Passport Book

A federally issued travel document that proves identity and U.S. citizenship.

  • Accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
  • Valid for international air travel
  • Valid for international land and sea travel
  • Accepted for many federal identification purposes
  • Must meet destination-specific validity and entry rules
Best for: Travelers who take international trips or want one document that can cover both domestic and international air travel.
Wallet-Sized Option

Passport Card

A wallet-sized federal passport document that proves U.S. citizenship and identity.

  • Accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
  • Federally accepted as an alternative to REAL ID
  • Limited international land and sea use
  • Not valid for international air travel
  • Fits conveniently in a wallet
Best for: Travelers who want a compact federal ID for domestic flights and eligible land or sea travel.

At-a-Glance Identification Comparison

Use this chart to understand what each document can generally be used for.

Use REAL ID Passport Book Passport Card
Domestic airline security ✓ Accepted ✓ Accepted ✓ Accepted
International air travel ✕ Not valid ✓ Valid ✕ Not valid
International land travel ✕ Not a border document ✓ Generally valid ! Limited destinations
International sea travel ✕ Not a passport ✓ Generally valid ! Limited destinations
Proof of U.S. citizenship ✕ No ✓ Yes ✓ Yes
May function as a driver's license ✓ When issued as a license ✕ No ✕ No
Issued by State or territory U.S. Department of State U.S. Department of State

Passport Card Limitation: A U.S. passport card cannot be used for international air travel. Its international use is generally limited to eligible land-border crossings and sea ports of entry involving Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean destinations.

How to Get a REAL ID

State Application Information

Illinois, Missouri, and Michigan REAL ID

REAL ID cards are issued by state licensing agencies. Although the federal purpose is the same, each state has its own application process, document checklist, office locations, and procedures. Use the information for the state where you legally reside.

Illinois Residents

Illinois REAL ID Application Information

Apply through an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility.

Illinois Secretary of State

Prepare Before Visiting Driver Services

Illinois residents applying for a REAL ID must bring acceptable documents that verify their identity, lawful status, Social Security number, written signature, and current Illinois residency.

Documents should be reviewed using the official Illinois checklist before visiting. Requirements can differ based on whether you are applying for the first time, renewing, replacing a card, or documenting a legal name change.

  • Review the official checklist before your visit
  • Bring original or otherwise officially accepted documents
  • Bring name-change documents when names do not match
  • Verify whether your chosen facility requires an appointment
Illinois residency: Applicants generally need two acceptable documents showing their current Illinois residential address.

Identity and Lawful Status

One acceptable document showing your full legal name, date of birth, and citizenship or lawful status, such as an eligible passport, certified birth certificate, permanent resident card, or employment authorization document.

Social Security Number

Provide the Social Security information or documentation required under the current Illinois application procedure.

Written Signature

Bring an acceptable document containing your written signature, unless the document combination you use already satisfies this requirement.

Illinois Residency

Bring two acceptable documents displaying your current Illinois residential address, such as qualifying financial, utility, insurance, lease, mortgage, or government records.

Missouri Residents

Missouri REAL ID Application Information

Apply through an authorized Missouri license office.

Missouri Department of Revenue

Request a REAL ID at the License Office

Missouri residents may request a REAL ID-compliant driver license or nondriver identification card at an authorized Missouri license office.

Tell the representative that you want a REAL ID-compliant credential. Bring qualifying documents that verify your identity, lawful status, Social Security number, Missouri residency, and any legal name changes.

  • Bring one acceptable identity document
  • Bring proof of lawful status
  • Bring acceptable Social Security documentation
  • Bring two proofs of Missouri residency
Name differences: Additional documentation may be required when your current legal name differs from the name shown on your primary identity or lawful-status document.

Proof of Identity

One acceptable document verifying your full legal name and date of birth, such as an eligible passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate.

Lawful Status

Provide an acceptable document establishing U.S. citizenship or qualifying immigration status. One document may sometimes satisfy both identity and lawful-status requirements.

Social Security Number

Bring one acceptable document verifying your Social Security number, following Missouri's current document requirements.

Missouri Residency

REAL ID applicants generally need two acceptable documents verifying their Missouri residential address and state domicile.

Michigan Residents

Michigan REAL ID Application Information

Apply through a Michigan Secretary of State office.

Michigan Secretary of State

Visit a Secretary of State Office

Michigan residents seeking to add REAL ID compliance to a license or state identification card must follow the Michigan Secretary of State's current application procedure.

Applicants should bring qualifying original or certified documents that establish legal presence, identity, Social Security number, Michigan residency, and any applicable legal name changes.

  • Review Michigan's document requirements
  • Schedule an office visit when appropriate
  • Bring original or certified documents
  • Bring certified name-change records when needed
Card design: Michigan REAL ID cards may display a star in a gold circle or a star within a Michigan-shaped marking. Both designs are REAL ID-compliant.

Legal Presence

Bring an acceptable original or certified document verifying U.S. citizenship or qualifying lawful presence.

Social Security Number

Provide the Social Security information or documentation required by the Michigan Secretary of State.

Proof of Identity

Bring documents establishing your identity and legal name. Certified supporting records may be necessary when your name has changed.

Michigan Residency

Bring acceptable documents showing your name and current Michigan residential address under the state's current requirements.

Live Outside These Three States?

Other States and Territories

Live Outside Illinois, Missouri, or Michigan?

REAL ID credentials are issued by each state and territory through its own driver-licensing agency. The federal standard is nationwide, but application procedures, accepted documents, fees, appointments, and card designs can vary.

Find Your State or Territory's Official REAL ID Website

Use the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID directory to locate the licensing agency for the state or territory where you legally reside.

Follow your own issuing agency's current instructions rather than using the document requirements listed for Illinois, Missouri, Michigan, or another state.

  • Select the state or territory where you legally reside
  • Review its official REAL ID application instructions
  • Confirm which original or certified documents are accepted
  • Check appointment, office, fee, and payment information
  • Verify procedures for legal name changes or address changes

What Can Differ From One State to Another?

Do not assume that every state uses the same application process or accepts the same combination of documents.

Accepted Documents

States may use different lists for identity, lawful status, Social Security, residency, and name-change verification.

Fees

REAL ID application, renewal, replacement, and duplicate card fees may differ by state and transaction type.

Appointments

Some licensing offices require or recommend appointments, while others may accept walk-in applicants.

Card Markings

Most compliant credentials display a star, while certain enhanced licenses and state-specific designs may use another federally recognized marking.

General REAL ID Application Process

Exact procedures differ, but most applicants can expect a process similar to these four steps.

1

Find Your Agency

Locate the official licensing agency for your state or territory through the DHS directory.

2

Review Requirements

Use the agency's current checklist to determine which identity and residency documents you need.

3

Visit the Office

Bring the required original or certified documents and complete the in-person application process.

4

Receive Your Card

Follow your agency's instructions regarding temporary credentials, processing, and delivery of the permanent card.

Other Identification Accepted by TSA

Alternative Identification

Other Identification Accepted by TSA

A REAL ID-compliant driver's license is not the only identification accepted at an airport security checkpoint. You may already have another TSA-accepted form of identification that can be used for domestic air travel.

State-Issued REAL ID

A compliant driver's license or state identification card issued by a U.S. state or territory.

  • REAL ID-compliant driver's license
  • REAL ID-compliant state identification card
  • Federally accepted enhanced driver's license
  • Federally accepted enhanced state ID

Passports and Border Documents

Certain federal travel and border-crossing documents may be presented at a TSA checkpoint.

  • U.S. passport book
  • U.S. passport card
  • Foreign-government passport
  • Border-crossing card

Trusted Traveler Cards

Physical Department of Homeland Security trusted-traveler cards may serve as acceptable identification.

  • Global Entry card
  • NEXUS card
  • SENTRI card
  • FAST card

Military and Federal IDs

Certain identification issued by the Department of Defense or another federal agency is accepted.

  • U.S. military ID
  • Military dependent ID
  • Department of Defense civilian ID
  • Federal Personal Identity Verification card

Immigration Documents

Certain identification and status documents issued by federal immigration authorities may be accepted.

  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Employment Authorization Document
  • Other qualifying federal immigration IDs

Other Government Credentials

TSA also accepts certain specialized government-issued credentials.

  • Federally recognized tribal photo ID
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
  • Veteran Health Identification Card

Identification for Children

TSA generally does not require children under age 18 to present identification when traveling within the United States with an adult companion. The airline may require documentation to verify a child's identity, age, or eligibility for a particular fare or service.

Expired Identification

TSA currently states that certain forms of identification may be accepted for up to two years after expiration. Because eligibility can depend on the document and current TSA procedures, verify the rule before traveling and renew expired identification as soon as possible.

Check Your Identification Before Departure

Confirm these four items before leaving for the airport.

1

Confirm It Is Accepted

Compare your planned identification with TSA's current official list.

2

Check the Expiration

Use a current document whenever possible and renew before travel.

3

Match the Reservation

Ensure the name on your airline reservation matches your identification.

4

Carry the Physical Document

Do not depend on a photograph or ordinary photocopy of your identification.

REAL ID Travel Tips

Before You Leave Home

REAL ID Travel Tips

A little preparation can prevent delays at the airport. Review your identification, reservation, and travel documents well before your departure date.

Look for the REAL ID Marking

Examine the front of your driver's license or state identification card.

  • Most compliant cards display a star near the top
  • Some enhanced credentials use another approved marking
  • Check with the issuing agency when uncertain

Check the Expiration Date

Review the expiration date on every document you plan to use for travel.

  • Renew expiring identification early
  • Allow time for processing and delivery
  • Do not rely on emergency exceptions

Match Your Reservation Name

The name on your airline reservation should match the identification you present.

  • Use your legal name when booking
  • Include required middle names or initials consistently
  • Correct errors before the travel date

Carry the Physical Document

Keep the original travel document with you and make it accessible at the checkpoint.

  • Do not place your only ID in checked luggage
  • Do not rely on an ordinary phone photograph
  • Protect the card or passport from damage

Use the Right Document for the Trip

The document needed for domestic travel may not be enough for an international itinerary.

  • REAL ID is intended for domestic federal purposes
  • International air travel requires a passport book
  • Cruises may have itinerary-specific requirements

Recheck Requirements Before Departure

Identification and entry procedures may change after you make your reservation.

  • Check TSA guidance shortly before flying
  • Review airline documentation instructions
  • Confirm destination and cruise requirements

Avoid Reservation Problems

Make Sure Your Name Matches

Enter your name on the airline reservation exactly as it appears on the identification you expect to present. Small formatting differences may be acceptable, but misspellings, missing surnames, incorrect legal names, or name changes can create delays.

Travelers who recently married, divorced, or legally changed their name should confirm whether their current identification and reservation use the same legal name.

Example of Consistent Booking Information

Identification Jordan Michael Smith
Airline Ticket Jordan Michael Smith
Avoid Jordan Jones, J. Smith, or a misspelled surname

Consider Carrying a Backup ID

When practical, carry a second accepted identification document in a secure location. For example, a traveler using a REAL ID may also carry a valid passport, especially when the itinerary includes international travel or a cruise.

Keep Secure Document Copies

Keep secure copies of important travel documents in a protected digital account or separate bag. Copies do not replace the original identification at the TSA checkpoint, but they may help if a document is lost or stolen.

Airport Identification Checklist

Use this checklist before leaving home and again before entering the security line.

Before Leaving Home

  • Confirm the identification is accepted by TSA
  • Check the identification expiration date
  • Confirm the reservation name matches the ID
  • Place the document in a secure, accessible location
  • Keep passports and travel documents out of checked baggage

At the Airport

  • Have the physical identification ready
  • Follow the instructions given by TSA officers
  • Allow additional time when using an uncommon credential
  • Keep the document secure after screening
  • Check the seating area before leaving the gate
Official REAL ID Resources

Official Government Information

REAL ID Resources

Use these official federal and state government resources to verify current identification rules, application procedures, accepted documents, office information, and travel requirements. Always rely on an official government website for final guidance.

Federal REAL ID and Travel Resources

These federal resources explain REAL ID enforcement, acceptable airport identification, and passport services.

Department of Homeland Security

Official REAL ID Information

Learn about the REAL ID Act, compliant credentials, federal enforcement, card markings, and participating states and territories.

  • REAL ID overview
  • State and territory directory
  • Federal enforcement information
Visit DHS REAL ID

Transportation Security Administration

Acceptable Identification

Review TSA's current list of identification documents accepted at airport security checkpoints for domestic travel.

  • REAL ID-compliant licenses
  • Passports and passport cards
  • Alternative federal credentials
View TSA Accepted IDs

Department of Homeland Security

REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions

Find federal answers about who needs a REAL ID, enhanced licenses, children, federal facilities, card markings, and alternative identification.

  • Who needs a REAL ID
  • Enhanced credential guidance
  • Federal-purpose explanations
Read REAL ID FAQs

Transportation Security Administration

TSA ConfirmID

Review TSA's current identity-verification process for travelers who arrive without an acceptable form of identification.

  • Eligibility information
  • Current fees
  • Verification limitations
Visit TSA ConfirmID

U.S. Department of State

U.S. Passport Services

Apply for, renew, replace, correct, or check the status of a U.S. passport through the Department of State.

  • First-time passport applications
  • Passport renewals
  • Processing and status information
Visit Passport Services

Transportation Security Administration

TSA PreCheck

Learn about TSA PreCheck enrollment, eligibility, participating airports, approved providers, and expedited security screening.

  • Enrollment information
  • Approved enrollment providers
  • Known Traveler Number guidance
Visit TSA PreCheck

State REAL ID Resources

Use the official licensing agency for the state or territory where you legally reside.

Application and Document Information

Review your issuing agency's current instructions before scheduling an appointment or visiting an office.

Illinois

Illinois Secretary of State REAL ID information, document requirements, and application guidance.

Illinois REAL ID

Missouri

Missouri Department of Revenue REAL ID information, document lists, and license-office guidance.

Missouri REAL ID

Michigan

Michigan Secretary of State REAL ID instructions, document requirements, and enhanced-ID information.

Michigan REAL ID

All Other States

Use the federal REAL ID directory to locate the official licensing agency for your state or territory.

Find Your State
REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

REAL ID Frequently Asked Questions

These answers address common questions travelers ask about REAL ID, passports, domestic flights, children, application documents, and airport identification.

REAL ID Questions and Answers

Select any question below to expand the answer.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly within the United States?

Travelers age 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant state credential or another form of identification accepted by TSA for domestic air travel.

A valid U.S. passport book, passport card, certain trusted-traveler cards, military identification, and other qualifying credentials may be used instead of a REAL ID.

Can I use my passport instead of a REAL ID?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport book or passport card is generally accepted by TSA for domestic airport security screening.

You do not need to present both a passport and a REAL ID at the checkpoint. However, international air travel requires a passport book.

Does a REAL ID replace my passport?

No. A REAL ID does not replace a passport and cannot be used for international travel.

A REAL ID is a state-issued credential that may be used for certain federal purposes, including domestic airport security screening and access to some federal facilities.

Do children need a REAL ID to fly?

TSA generally does not require children under age 18 to present identification when traveling domestically with an adult companion.

Airlines may have their own requirements for verifying a child's age, identity, custody, unaccompanied-minor status, or eligibility for a particular fare. International travel requires the appropriate passport and entry documents for each child.

How can I tell whether my driver's license is REAL ID-compliant?

Most REAL ID-compliant credentials display a star or another federally approved marking near the top of the card.

Some enhanced driver's licenses and identification cards use a different approved design. Contact the agency that issued your card when you are unsure whether it is compliant.

What documents do I need to apply for a REAL ID?

Exact requirements vary by state, but applicants generally need documentation covering:

  • Identity and date of birth
  • U.S. citizenship or lawful status
  • Social Security number or qualifying status
  • Current residential address
  • Legal name changes, when applicable

Use the current checklist published by your own state licensing agency before visiting an office.

Can I apply for a REAL ID completely online?

State procedures differ. Some agencies allow applicants to begin an application online, upload information, or schedule an appointment.

A first-time REAL ID application generally requires an in-person visit so the issuing agency can inspect documents, confirm identity, and complete the credentialing process.

What happens if the names on my documents do not match?

You may need certified documents that connect your current legal name to the name shown on your birth certificate, passport, immigration document, or other identity record.

Examples may include certified marriage certificates, divorce decrees, court orders, or other officially accepted name-change records.

Can I still drive without a REAL ID?

A standard state driver's license may still be valid for driving, state identification, and other nonfederal purposes even when it is not REAL ID-compliant.

REAL ID compliance primarily affects certain federal uses, such as domestic airport security screening and entry into designated federal facilities.

Can I use a temporary paper license at the airport?

A temporary paper credential may not be accepted as your primary TSA identification. Acceptance depends on the type of document and current TSA procedures.

Carry another accepted physical identification document whenever possible and verify TSA guidance before traveling while waiting for a permanent card.

Can I fly with an expired identification card?

TSA may accept certain forms of identification for a limited period after expiration. The rule can depend on the credential and current screening procedures.

Renew expired identification as soon as possible and confirm current TSA guidance before relying on an expired document.

What happens if I arrive at the airport without acceptable ID?

You may be directed to an additional identity verification process and may face delays, added screening, or a fee.

Completing an alternative verification process does not guarantee that TSA will confirm your identity or permit you to enter the secure area. Arrive with an accepted physical document whenever possible.

Do I need a REAL ID for a cruise?

A cruise line's documentation requirements depend on the itinerary, ports, citizenship, embarkation location, and whether the cruise is closed-loop or one-way.

A REAL ID does not replace a passport for international travel. Our Family Travel generally recommends carrying a valid passport book for cruises that visit foreign destinations.

Does my TSA PreCheck membership replace a REAL ID?

No. TSA PreCheck is an expedited airport screening program. Your Known Traveler Number does not replace the identification required at the security checkpoint.

You must still present a REAL ID-compliant credential or another form of identification accepted by TSA.

Should I get a REAL ID if I already have a passport?

A valid passport may be used instead of a REAL ID for domestic airport security screening, so a REAL ID is not required solely for that purpose.

Some travelers prefer a REAL ID because it is smaller and easier to carry for domestic travel. Others choose to continue using their passport. The best choice depends on your travel habits and personal preference.

Important Travel Information Disclaimer

Please verify all requirements with the responsible government agency or travel provider.

This page is provided by Our Family Travel for general educational and travel-planning purposes. It is intended to help travelers understand common REAL ID and airport identification requirements.

Government Decisions

Our Family Travel does not issue identification, approve applications, inspect documents, verify identity, or make airport security decisions.

Requirements May Change

Government agencies, airlines, cruise lines, and destinations may revise rules, fees, documents, and procedures without notice.

Traveler Responsibility

Each traveler is responsible for obtaining and carrying all identification and travel documents required for the complete itinerary.

Information on this page should not be treated as legal advice, immigration advice, or a guarantee that a particular document will be accepted. Final decisions are made by the issuing agency, TSA officer, airline, cruise line, immigration authority, border official, or other responsible government authority.

Before applying or traveling, confirm current information directly with the Department of Homeland Security, the Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. Department of State, your state licensing agency, your airline, and any other organization responsible for your itinerary.

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