Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement
US travelers may face complications this summer if they fly without a Real ID. Here’s what you need to know.
Arielle Burton Associate Content Manager
Arielle Burton is an associate content manager on CNET’s Performance Optimization team. She graduated from Hofstra University in New York. Prior to joining CNET, she worked with legacy news (ABC7NY and Fox Business Network) and tech companies (Mashable). She specializes in crafting compelling alerts, building community engagement on news platforms, and optimizing CNET’s content for all audiences. Ultimately, Arielle is a digital media professional by day and a fierce chef by night.
Expertise News Platform Aggregation | Alerts | Home Page Curation | Content Optimization
Dan was a writer on CNET’s How-To and Thought Leadership teams. His byline has appeared in The New York Times, Newsweek, NBC News, Architectural Digest and elsewhere. He is a crossword junkie and is interested in the intersection of tech and marginalized communities.
Expertise Personal finance | Government and Policy | Consumer affairs
Katie Teague Former Writer II
Katie covered all things how-to at CNET, with a focus on Social Security and notable events. When she’s not writing, she enjoys playing in golf scrambles, practicing yoga and spending time on the lake.
Expertise Personal Finance: Social Security and taxes
Seriously, if you don’t have your Real ID yet, your TSA checks might become more complicated soon. Starting May 7, 2025, which is a few days away, all US travelers must have a Real ID (or other acceptable form of identification) for all domestic flights.
The Real ID deadline has been extended multiple times, but this day seems to be sticking. If you are planning on flying this summer or just traveling in general by plane soon, make sure your driver’s license is compliant with the new regulations. We should note that there are discussions about extending the deadline to 2027 but I wouldn’t hold my breath.
The process is pretty straightforward in most states, especially if you’re renewing a license. But if it’s been a while or you’re not sure where you stand, it’s worth double-checking now. Use the interactive map below to find your state’s requirements and get started so you’re ready to fly without any surprises.
For more on travel regulations, find out how to renew your passport online, score cheap flights and how to streamline your airport experience.
What is a Real ID and how do I know if I have one?
Real IDs will be required at airport security starting next month.
DHSEssentially, Real ID is an enhanced version of your standard state driver’s license or identification card, intended to help authorities crack down on terrorism and identity fraud.
Today, all 50 states and the District of Columbia are complying with Real ID standards, according to the Department of Homeland Security. If you recently renewed your driver’s license, it’s likely already compliant. If it’s been a few years, you’ll probably have to get it updated.
Real ID-approved licenses will have one of these stars in the upper-right corner.
Department of Homeland SecurityYou can tell by looking at your license: If there is a gold, black or white star in the upper-right corner, you have a Real ID. (There are some minor variations — California places a white star over the state’s bear logo, while Maine puts it in an outline of the state.)
How do I apply for a Real ID card in my state?
Whatever state agency issued your driver’s license is responsible for distributing Real IDs. The paperwork required will vary but typically includes proof of identity and status as a US resident or citizen, proof of your Social Security number and multiple proofs of your current address.
Originals or hard copies of documentation — birth certificate, Social Security card, US passport — are required, with photocopies and screenshots not accepted. Check your state’s driver’s licensing agency website for more specifics.
After you apply, you should receive a temporary paper ID until your Real ID-compliant license arrives in the mail about three or four weeks later.
With a few exceptions, the cost of getting a Real ID-compliant license is the same as renewing your license or non-driving identification card.
What happens if I don’t get a Real ID before the deadline?
Beginning in May 2025 — unless the deadline is extended again — federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration will accept only Real ID-approved licenses and identification cards “for purposes of accessing federal facilities,” according to DHS.
That includes airport security checkpoints.
Without one, US adults will have to show a valid passport, even to fly domestically, or one of these other forms of ID:
- US Department of Defense ID
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- Enhanced Driver’s License, issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington state
An example of a driver’s license with a Real ID logo.
Ohio Department of Public SafetyNot having a Real ID-compliant license won’t affect other uses of a driver’s license, including verifying an individual’s ability to operate a vehicle or purchase alcohol, firearms or tobacco.
For more tips on flying, learn how to never pay full price for air travel, or check out six tricks for making sure you get the perfect seat.