As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, will be required to fly within the United States. This means that a standard Massachusetts state ID will not be accepted for domestic air travel. However, a REAL ID-compliant Massachusetts state ID will be accepted.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Can you travel domestically with a Massachusetts state ID? | Yes, until May 7, 2025. After that, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card. |
Who does this apply to? | Adult passengers (18 and over) must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel. |
What other forms of ID are accepted? | DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. Department of Defense ID, permanent resident card, foreign government-issued passport, etc. |
What You'll Learn
Flying domestically without a Massachusetts state ID
As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to fly domestically within the US. Until then, a standard Massachusetts State ID can be used to fly domestically.
The REAL ID is a form of identification that meets increased security standards set by the federal government. All air travellers aged 18 and over will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification, to fly within the US.
To obtain a REAL ID, you must provide the following documentation:
- Proof of lawful presence and date of birth (e.g. US passport, birth certificate, foreign passport with US visa)
- Proof of Social Security Number (e.g. SSN card, W-2, recent pay stub)
- Two pieces of proof of Massachusetts residency (e.g. document displaying current residential address in Massachusetts with the applicant's name)
If you do not have a REAL ID, you may still be able to fly domestically. The TSA accepts other forms of identification, including:
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Transportation worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening.
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Flying domestically with a Massachusetts Real ID
If you are planning to fly domestically within the US with a Massachusetts-issued ID, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to know that the requirements for flying with a Real ID have changed over the years. Older sources suggest that a standard Massachusetts driver's license was sufficient to fly domestically within the US. However, according to more recent sources, starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card will be required for domestic air travel within the US for anyone 18 years of age or older. This deadline has been extended by the Department of Homeland Security, giving Massachusetts residents more time to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license if needed.
So, what is considered a REAL ID-compliant license? The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, sets standards for the issuance of sources of identification and establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production. It also prohibits federal agencies from accepting driver's licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these minimum standards. To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card in Massachusetts, you must provide proof of lawful presence and date of birth, proof of your Social Security Number, and two pieces of proof of Massachusetts residency. These documents must be original or certified versions.
If you are not sure whether your current Massachusetts-issued ID or driver's license is REAL ID-compliant, you can check with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). Additionally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has published a list of acceptable forms of identification on its website, which includes not only REAL ID-compliant licenses but also other forms of identification such as passports, DHS-trusted traveler cards, and more.
It is important to note that the requirements for flying domestically may change again in the future. Therefore, it is always a good idea to check with official sources, such as the TSA website, for the most up-to-date information before planning your travel.
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Flying domestically with a standard Massachusetts license
As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to fly domestically within the US. Until then, a standard Massachusetts driver's license is valid for domestic flights. This means that if you plan to fly within the US before May 7, 2025, and you are over 18, you can use your standard Massachusetts driver's license as a valid form of identification.
The REAL ID is a more secure form of identification that will soon be required for all domestic flights in the US. It is issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and has stricter documentation requirements than a standard license.
If you are unsure whether your ID is REAL ID-compliant, you should check with your state's DMV. If your ID is not compliant, you will need to apply for a REAL ID before May 7, 2025, to continue flying domestically. The documentation required for a REAL ID includes:
- Proof of lawful presence and date of birth (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two pieces of proof of residency
In addition to REAL ID-compliant state IDs and driver's licenses, other acceptable forms of identification for domestic flights include:
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
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Flying domestically with a passport
As of May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly domestically within the US. This includes foreign government-issued passports.
REAL ID-compliant forms of ID include:
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
- State-issued driver's license or ID card
- Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation worker identification credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
If you are unsure whether your passport is REAL ID-compliant, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles.
TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance of their flight time.
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Flying domestically without ID
Flying domestically without a valid ID is possible but may require extra time and effort. Here is a guide to help you navigate the process:
Before Your Trip:
If you realize you have lost your ID before your trip, contact the TSA Care Centre at 1-855-787-2227 for guidance. They can advise you on alternative forms of identification and any other necessary steps. It is also recommended to contact your airline's customer service to inform them of your situation and seek their specific policies.
At the Airport:
Arrive at the airport at least two hours earlier than usual to allow sufficient time for additional screening and identity verification processes. When you get to the airport, proceed to the check-in counter to check your luggage, as curbside check-in will not be available without proper ID. Then, locate a TSA supervisor and explain your situation to them.
Identity Verification:
The TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details. They may also ask for additional forms of identification to help confirm your identity. Here are some alternative forms of ID that may be useful:
- Expired government-issued photo IDs
- Library card
- Membership cards with photos (e.g., Costco card)
- Work security badges
- Digital photos of your IDs on your phone
- Police reports of lost/stolen ID
- Business cards with photos
- School ID
- Checkbook with your name and address
Boarding Your Flight:
If your identity is confirmed by the TSA, you will be allowed to proceed through security screening. You will then receive a boarding pass with an official note explaining your situation, and you can proceed to board your flight.
Additional Tips:
- Keep a record of your ID details and photos of your IDs on your phone or in secure emails.
- Consider joining a Trusted Traveler Program, such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which can provide expedited security screening for domestic travel and facilitate your arrival through customs for international travel.
- Always arrive at the airport early if travelling without a valid ID to allow extra time for identity verification.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a Massachusetts state ID is accepted by the TSA for domestic travel.
REAL ID compliance is not required for domestic travel until May 7, 2025.
The TSA accepts various forms of ID, including driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, DHS trusted traveller cards, and passports.
No, after this date, you will need a REAL ID-compliant ID or another TSA-acceptable form of identification.
If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, and if your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening.