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Since May 2025, a standard driver’s license without the REAL ID star won’t get an adult through airport security on its own. Here’s what will.
The REAL ID Act set federal security standards for state driver’s licenses and ID cards. After years of delays, enforcement at airport security checkpoints began on May 7, 2025. For adults 18 and over, a standard license that isn’t REAL ID compliant no longer works by itself for domestic flights.
IDs TSA accepts
| ID | Notes |
|---|---|
| REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID | Usually marked with a star |
| U.S. passport or passport card | Also covers international travel (the card only by land and sea) |
| DHS trusted traveler card | Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST |
| U.S. military ID | Including dependents’ IDs |
| Permanent resident card | Green card |
| Enhanced driver’s license | Issued by a few states; REAL ID compliant |
The full list, including tribal IDs and other documents, is on TSA’s website.
The $45 ConfirmID option
Starting February 1, 2026, adults who arrive without acceptable ID can pay a $45 fee through TSA ConfirmID for an alternative identity verification process. You pay online at tsa.gov/ConfirmID and show the receipt, printed or on your phone, at the checkpoint. A successful verification covers you for 10 days, so a return flight within that window doesn’t need a second fee.
Paying doesn’t guarantee you’ll get through, and the process takes time, so get to the airport early.
Heads up
Pay only on TSA’s official site. Scam sites that look official have charged travelers for “REAL ID” or “TSA” services that do nothing.
Traveling with children
TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to show ID when they’re traveling with an adult companion within the United States. Airlines can have their own rules, especially for unaccompanied minors or lap infants, so check with the carrier.
Getting compliant
Visit your state’s motor vehicle agency with proof of identity, Social Security number and two proofs of address; requirements vary slightly by state, so check its website before you go. Many states let you start online.
If you fly often, a trusted traveler card can serve as your ID and speed up screening at the same time; see TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and NEXUS. A passport works too, and if yours is close to expiring, read passport renewal and processing times.
Before you go
- Since May 7, 2025, adults need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable ID at TSA checkpoints.
- A U.S. passport, passport card, trusted traveler card or military ID also works.
- Since February 1, 2026, adults without acceptable ID can pay $45 for TSA ConfirmID identity verification, valid for 10 days.
- TSA doesn’t require ID for children under 18 traveling with an adult within the U.S., but airlines may.
Travelers also ask
Q: How do I know if my license is REAL ID compliant?
A: Most compliant cards have a star in the upper portion of the card, often in a gold or black circle. If yours doesn’t, check with your state’s motor vehicle agency.
Q: Does paying for ConfirmID guarantee I can fly?
A: No. It pays for an attempt to verify your identity. If TSA can’t confirm who you are, you may not be allowed through the checkpoint.
Q: Can I use a digital ID on my phone?
A: TSA accepts digital IDs from participating states at a growing number of airports. Bring the physical card too, since not every checkpoint or airline can accept a digital ID.
Fees, processing times and agency rules change, and airline and hotel policies vary. This guide is general information for travelers in the U.S.; confirm the current rules with the agency, airline or hotel before you travel.
