Air Travel And Minnesota Licenses: What You Need To Know

Minnesota residents have been using their standard driver's license as a valid form of identification to board domestic flights within the US. However, there is an upcoming change to federal laws that will impact what is required to pass through security at Minnesota St. Paul International Airport (MSP). From 7 May 2025, Minnesota residents will need a Minnesota Real ID driver's license or identification card to board any domestic or international commercial flight. Until then, a state-issued driver's license, state-issued photo ID card, passport, or US military ID card will be accepted.

Minnesota Real ID requirements for air travel

Minnesota residents currently do not need a Minnesota "Real ID" driver's license or identification card to board a domestic or international commercial flight. Until 7 May 2025, Minnesotan travelers can use the following identification documents when boarding a plane from Minnesota St. Paul International Airport (MSP):

• State-issued driver's license
• State-issued photo ID card
• Passport
• U.S. military ID card

These are the standard government-issued identification documents that will be accepted. After the federally mandated enforcement deadline of 7 May 2025, Minnesota travelers will be required to have a Real ID to board a domestic flight, enter federal buildings, and access certain government services.

The Minnesota Real ID is a type of driver's license or identification card that meets the federal standards for identification purposes established by the Real ID Act. It includes additional security features and verification processes to ensure the authenticity of the document and the identity of the holder. Obtaining a Minnesota Real ID is not mandatory, but it is advised for Minnesota frequent travelers to obtain one as soon as possible to ensure no issues while traveling.

To obtain a Minnesota Real ID, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident and have a valid Social Security number (SSN). You will also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and lawful presence in the United States. A list of acceptable documents can be found on the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s website. Some documents include:

• A passport
• Certified U.S. birth certificate
• Permanent resident card

The fees for obtaining a Minnesota Real ID as of March 2023 are as follows:

• $21.50 initial application
• $21.50 renewal fee
• $20.75 for senior citizens
• $17.00 duplicate card

Identification documents accepted until May 7, 2025

Minnesota residents will need a Minnesota “Real ID” driver’s license or identification card (ID) to board any domestic or international commercial flight starting May 7, 2025. Until then, the following identification documents are accepted when boarding a plane from Minnesota St. Paul International Airport (MSP):

• State-issued driver's license
• State-issued photo ID card
• Passport
• U.S. Military ID card

These are the standard government-issued identification documents that will be accepted. The Minnesota Real ID is a type of driver’s license or identification card that meets the federal standards for identification purposes established by the Real ID Act. It includes additional security features and verification processes to ensure the authenticity of the document and the identity of the individual holding it.

Differences between Minnesota Real ID and regular ID

Minnesota residents have been able to use a standard driver's license to board domestic US flights. However, there is an upcoming change to Federal laws that will impact what identification documents are required to board a plane. From 7 May 2025, Minnesota residents will need a Minnesota "Real ID" driver's license or identification card to board any domestic or international commercial flight.

Stricter Identity Verification

To obtain a Minnesota Real ID, you must provide additional identification documentation, such as a certified birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card. For a regular Minnesota ID, you only need to provide standard documentation like your Social Security card and proof of residency.

Additional Security Features

The Minnesota Real ID has more security features than a regular state ID. It has a star in the top right corner and a gold circle with a star cutout on the front of the card, making it more difficult to counterfeit or alter.

Federal Acceptance

A Minnesota Real ID is accepted by federal agencies for certain purposes, including boarding domestic flights, accessing federal buildings, and entering nuclear power plants. A regular state ID may not be accepted for these purposes after the federally mandated enforcement deadline in 2025.

Both a Minnesota Real ID and a regular Minnesota state ID will be used for many other purposes, such as driving, voting, obtaining travel credit cards, and accessing non-federal government buildings and services.

How to obtain a Minnesota Real ID

As of May 7, 2025, Minnesotans 18 years of age or older will need to have a Minnesota REAL ID driver's license or identification card to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a Minnesota REAL ID:

Check Your Eligibility:

To be eligible for a Minnesota REAL ID, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident with a valid Social Security number (SSN). You will also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and lawful presence in the United States.

Collect the Necessary Documents:

You will need to bring several identification documents to your appointment. These include:

• A passport
• Certified U.S. birth certificate
• Permanent resident card
• Certified marriage certificate (if your name has changed)
• Certified court order (if your name has changed)
• Certified divorce decree or dissolution of marriage (if your name has changed)

Visit Your Local DVS Office:

At your appointment, you will be required to submit your documents, have your photograph taken, and pay the applicable fee. The fees for a Minnesota REAL ID are as follows:

• $21.50 for the initial application
• $21.50 for renewal
• $20.75 for senior citizens
• $17.00 for a duplicate card

Receive Your REAL ID:

After completing the application process and paying the fee, your new Minnesota REAL ID will be mailed to you within two to four weeks.

It is important to note that obtaining a Minnesota REAL ID is not mandatory. However, it is strongly recommended for frequent travelers to ensure a smooth travel experience. Additionally, until May 7, 2025, Minnesotans can use alternative forms of identification, such as a state-issued driver's license, state-issued photo ID card, passport, or U.S. Military ID card, for domestic travel.

The right to travel without a driver's license

In the United States, the freedom of movement and the right to travel are guaranteed by the Constitution. This right generally means individuals can move around areas within the US without government interference. However, this does not include the right to use a particular mode of transportation, such as a motor vehicle or airplane, without meeting the necessary qualifications. For example, when travelling by air, individuals need to purchase a plane ticket and pass through security, which may include presenting valid identification.

While the right to travel is a fundamental freedom, it is not absolute and is subject to limitations. Similarly to how the right to free speech does not permit an individual to yell "Fire!" in a crowded theatre, the right to travel does not grant the freedom to drive a vehicle without a valid driver's license and proper registration.

State laws requiring motorists to possess a valid driver's license on public roads do not violate constitutional rights. This is because driving is considered a privilege, and public safety takes precedence in such cases. Dangerous or untrained drivers can pose a risk to others and their property, hence the need for licenses to ensure all drivers are qualified to operate vehicles safely.

It's worth noting that the interpretation of the right to travel has been clarified and refined over the years through various federal court cases, such as Hendrick v. State of Maryland, Shapiro v. Thompson, and Sáenz v. Roe. These cases have helped establish the boundaries between state laws and constitutional rights when it comes to travel.

In the context of Minnesota, residents have been able to use a standard state-issued driver's license for domestic air travel. However, this is subject to change. As of May 7, 2025, Minnesota residents will need a "Real ID" driver's license or identification card to board domestic or international commercial flights, according to changes in federal laws. This "Real ID" is compliant with the minimum security standards established by the Real ID Act passed by Congress in 2005. While obtaining this "Real ID" is not mandatory, it will be required for certain activities, including air travel, entering federal facilities, and accessing certain government services.

Frequently asked questions