Your ID must be a REAL ID now.

If you have been to an airport recently, you may have noticed new signs at the security checkpoint reminding travelers about the REAL ID requirement. As of May 7, 2025, the federal government began enforcing the REAL ID Act, which means that standard state-issued driver's licenses are no longer accepted for domestic air travel — unless they are REAL ID compliant.

Here is what that means for you and what you can do about it.

What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards established after the September 11 attacks. You can identify a REAL ID compliant card by looking for a star symbol in the upper right corner of your license. If your license does not have that star, it is not REAL ID compliant.

What Happens If You Show Up Without One?

Without a REAL ID compliant license, TSA will not accept your state ID for domestic flights. You could be turned away at the security checkpoint and miss your flight entirely.

The Good News — Your Passport Solves Everything

Here is the part most travelers do not realize. A valid U.S. passport — or passport card — is fully accepted at TSA checkpoints in place of a REAL ID. If you already have a passport, you are completely covered for domestic travel. Simply bring it to the airport the same way you would for an international trip and walk right through security without any issues.

Do Not Have a Passport Yet?

If you do not have a passport, now is the perfect time to get one. A U.S. passport is accepted for both domestic and international travel, making it the most versatile travel document you can carry. Processing times vary, but standard processing typically takes six to eight weeks. If you need one faster, expedited processing is available.

For passport assistance including renewals, new applications, and lost passport help, MyTravelAgent.com has resources to help you get started quickly.

The Bottom Line

Check your driver's license right now. Look for the star in the upper right corner. If it is not there, either get your license upgraded at your local DMV or make sure you bring your passport every time you fly — domestic or international.

Travel is complicated enough. Your ID should not be the reason your trip gets derailed before it even starts.

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