Since May 2025, US domestic flights require a Real ID-compliant license — or an accepted alternative. Here's how to tell if yours qualifies, what else works, and how to get one.
| ID | Flies you domestically? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Real ID license/ID (★ star) | Yes | The star marks it compliant. |
| Standard license (no star) | No | Not accepted on its own anymore. |
| US passport | Yes | Works instead of a Real ID. |
| US passport card | Yes | Wallet-size; domestic + land borders. |
| Global Entry / NEXUS card | Yes | A trusted-traveler card counts. |
| US military ID | Yes | Active/retired & dependents. |
| Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) | Yes | Issued by some states. |
| Tribal ID / other DHS IDs | Yes | See TSA's full list. |
| Children under 18 | No ID | Not required for domestic when with an adult. |
No. A valid US passport (or passport card) is accepted for domestic flights, so you can fly without a Real ID. You'd only want the Real ID for the convenience of not carrying your passport domestically.
Look for a star in the top-right corner — usually a gold or black star, sometimes inside a bear or state outline. No star means it's a standard license and won't get you through airport security on its own.
No. TSA doesn't require children under 18 to show ID for domestic flights when traveling with a companion. The adult, however, needs a Real ID or accepted alternative.
No — Real ID is only for domestic flights and federal buildings. Any international flight still requires a passport, plus enough validity for your destination.