Travel Plans: Is My Id Valid?

is my id good for travel

As of May 7, 2025, all adult passengers flying within the US will need to show a REAL ID-compliant form of identification at the airport security checkpoint. This means that if your state-issued ID or driver's license does not have a star in the top right corner, you will need to bring another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, to fly domestically. Children under 18 are exempt from these requirements.

Characteristics Values
Required for Domestic flights, entering federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants
Not required for International travel, driving, voting, receiving federal benefits, entering federal facilities that do not require ID
Alternative documents Passport, DHS Trusted Traveler cards, U.S. Department of Defense IDs, foreign government-issued passport, etc.
Deadline 7 May 2025
Age requirement 18 and older
Markings Star in the top right corner
TSA recommendation Arrive at least 3 hours in advance without acceptable ID

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What is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID is a driver's license or identification card that is recognised across the US. It is marked with a star in the top right corner and complies with the minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. It is not a national identification card, but a national set of standards.

The REAL ID was established by the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, which enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses". The Act prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and cards that don't meet the standards.

From May 7, 2025, every air traveller aged 18 or over will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID, to fly within the US. This ID will also be required to visit federal facilities or enter nuclear power plants.

To apply for a REAL ID, you must provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You will also need to go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person.

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When do I need a REAL ID?

Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveller aged 18 or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or other acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. This means that if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., it must be REAL ID-compliant.

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards, and it prohibits federal agencies from accepting licenses and identification cards for official purposes from states that do not meet these standards.

The REAL ID will have a significant impact on how individuals interact with the Transportation Security Administration and airport security. However, it is important to note that a REAL ID is not required for children under 18 when travelling with a companion within the United States. Additionally, a REAL ID is not needed for driving, voting, applying for or receiving federal benefits, or entering federal facilities that do not require identification.

To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must provide documentation showing their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address for their principal residence, and lawful status. While the specific process and requirements may vary by state, individuals can generally visit their state's driver's licensing agency website or a local DMV office to apply for a REAL ID. It is recommended that individuals allow ample time for the application process, as wait times can be lengthy.

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How do I get a REAL ID?

From 7 May 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly within the US or enter certain federal facilities. This is due to the REAL ID Act, a law passed in 2005 that sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards.

To get a REAL ID, you will need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and a trip to your local DMV. Requirements are largely similar across states, but there may be some differences, so it's best to check with your state driver's licensing agency. For example, in California, residents can apply for a Real ID by filling out an application online and uploading documents before visiting a DMV office.

  • Proof of identity: One original or certified document, such as a valid passport or birth certificate. If the name on your proof of identity is different from the name on your other documents, you will also need to provide a legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate or adoption papers.
  • Proofs of residency: Two documents as paper copies, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
  • Social Security number: You will need to provide your Social Security number, but there may be some exceptions.

In some states, such as Texas, you can apply for a new REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID in person at a Department of Public Safety office. You may be eligible to renew your existing license or ID online.

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What does a REAL ID look like?

As of May 7, 2025, every air traveller aged 18 or over will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly within the United States. This can be a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID.

A REAL ID-compliant card is typically marked with a star at the top. If you are unsure whether your ID is compliant, you should contact your state driver's license agency. State-issued enhanced driver's licenses are also accepted and are marked with a flag.

In California, a REAL ID driver's license or identification card will feature a golden bear and a star on the top right corner. If your ID says "Federal Limits Apply" on the top right corner, it is not a REAL ID, and you will not be able to use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility.

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What if I don't have a REAL ID?

If you don't have a REAL ID, you will not be able to board domestic commercial flights in the US or access certain federal facilities, such as military bases and federal courthouses, from May 7, 2025. This is when the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, comes into enforcement.

However, if you arrive at the airport without a REAL ID, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA will try to confirm your identity by asking for your name, current address, and other personal information. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, but you will be subject to additional screening, including a pat-down and screening of carry-on property. If your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. The TSA recommends arriving at least two to three hours in advance of your flight time if you don't have acceptable identification.

It's important to note that a REAL ID is not required for children under 18 travelling within the US. However, individual airlines may have ID requirements for children, so it's a good idea to check with the airline.

If you don't have a REAL ID, there are alternative forms of identification that will be accepted, including:

  • DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including IDs issued to dependents
  • Permanent resident card
  • Border crossing card
  • State-issued Enhanced Driver's License
  • 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)

Frequently asked questions

Yes, every adult needs a REAL ID-compliant card to be able to fly.

No, children do not need a REAL ID to fly. The TSA will not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling with a companion within the United States.

You may still be allowed to fly. The TSA will try to confirm your identity by having you complete a verification process which includes supplying your name, current address, and other personal information.

REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top. If your ID is REAL ID-compliant, there will be a star in the top right corner.

Federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, will only accept state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards as identification for purposes of accessing federal facilities - including TSA airport security checkpoints - if the license or card was issued by a REAL ID-compliant state.

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