Everything You Need to Know About the Real ID Act's Impact on Travel
What is the Real ID Act?
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 with the aim of enhancing national security and preventing identity theft.
It does this by establishing requirements for identification cards to be accepted at federal facilities. Federal facilities include airports, military buildings, courthouses and more.
If you have a Real ID, then you'll see a black or gold star in the corner of your identification card, such as on your driving license.
The Real ID Act only applies to US citizens.
What does the Real ID ACT mean for my travel plans?
To access federal facilities, including airports, every US resident will be required to present Real ID-compliant identification. Anyone without a valid Real ID or another acceptable form of identification (listed later in the page) will not be permitted to enter TSA checkpoints and will not be allowed to fly.
It's important to note that this only applies to domestic travel within the United States. For US residents travelling internationally or non-US residents flying across America, a valid passport will still be required.
How to get Real ID?
States will not automatically send out new Real ID-compliant licenses. Instead, you'll need to make an appointment and physically visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to register for a new card.
What does a compliant ID look like?
Real ID can be identified as compliant if it has a gold or black star on the front upper corner. If your card displays "Federal Limits Apply" or "Not for Federal Identification," then you know it is not compliant.
Alternatives to a Real ID
Don't have a Real-ID but still want to travel domestically? Don't worry. There are other forms of identification that you can use instead.
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- US Passport
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
- US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Discover more alternatives here
Trusted globally
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
We’re super proud of our Trustpilot rating, but don’t just take it from us. See why millions of others love booking their flights through Alternative Airlines
Real ID Act and Travel FAQs
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a form of identification needed to help US residents access federal sites, including airports. If you're flying domestically, then instead of using your passport, you can show a Real ID, such as a driver's license. You'll know if your license qualifies under the Real ID Act if you see a black or gold star in the front corner.
Do I have to have a Real ID compliant license?
If you're a US resident, then you'll need a Real ID or an acceptable alternative to access federal buildings, including airports. This means that if you want to fly domestically, you must have a Real ID or another form of approved ID, such as a passport.
Do I need a Real ID to fly?
If you are a US citizen flying domestically, you will need a Real ID or an alternative form of suitable identification, such as your passport. If you're a non-US citizen or flying internationally, a Real ID won't be sufficient to permit travel, and you'll need to bring a passport.
Do I need a Real ID for international travel?
No. A Real ID won't be enough to permit international travel. Instead, you'll need a passport.
Do children under 18 need identification?
If you're a US resident travelling with an under-18-year-old, as long as you, the adult, have acceptable identification, such as a Real ID, the minor will not require their own official identification when flying domestically.
For international travel, the minor will need a passport.