What You Need to Know About REAL ID and Travel

If you’re planning to travel soon—whether by air, sea, or land—you may have heard about the REAL ID Act and how it affects your ability to fly. But what exactly is a REAL ID, and why is it important for travelers? In this post, we’ll break down what you need to know to ensure you don’t run into any problems at the airport.

What Is REAL ID?

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 as a security measure to establish stricter identification requirements for travel and access to certain federal facilities. The goal is to enhance security by making driver’s licenses and identification cards harder to forge.

A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card has a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that it meets federal security standards. Without one, you may not be able to board a domestic flight or enter certain government buildings.

Do You Need a REAL ID to Fly?

Starting May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers 18 years and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an alternative form of TSA-approved identification to board domestic flights.

If you don’t have a REAL ID by that date, you’ll need to present one of the following:

A valid passport
A passport card
A DHS Trusted Traveler card (like Global Entry)
A U.S. military ID
A permanent resident card (Green Card)
Another form of TSA-approved identification (see the full list here)

Without a REAL ID or an alternative form of ID, you will not be allowed to board your flight, even for domestic travel.

How to Get a REAL ID

If you haven’t upgraded your driver’s license to a REAL ID yet, here’s how you can do it:

Check Your State’s Requirements – Each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles REAL ID applications. Visit your state’s DMV website to see what’s required.
Gather Your Documents – Most DMVs require:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card or W-2)
- Two proofs of residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
Make an Appointment – Some states allow walk-ins, but booking an appointment can save you time.
Visit Your Local DMV – Bring your documents and apply for the REAL ID in person. You’ll usually need a new photo taken.
Receive Your REAL ID – Processing times vary, so apply early to avoid delays.

What If You’re Traveling Internationally?

For international travel, a passport is still required. A REAL ID does not replace a passport for traveling outside the U.S.

If you’re taking a cruise, check with your cruise line about acceptable identification. While some closed-loop cruises (round-trip from the U.S.) allow a birth certificate and government-issued ID, having a passport is always the safest option in case of an emergency.

Final Thoughts

With the REAL ID deadline approaching in May 2025, now is the time to make sure you’re prepared. If you frequently travel for work or leisure, upgrading your driver’s license to a REAL ID is a simple step that will prevent any last-minute travel headaches.

Not sure if you have a REAL ID? Check your driver’s license—if there’s no star in the upper right-hand corner, you’ll need to upgrade before the deadline.