Every air traveler aged 18 or older must present valid government-issued identification to fly within the United States. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID is required.
REAL ID Requirement
Since May 7, 2025, TSA requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, or another acceptable form of identification, to pass through airport security checkpoints.
Traveling Without an Acceptable ID
Travelers who arrive at security without a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable ID may still be screened only after completing TSA's identity-verification process (TSA ConfirmID). As of February 1, 2026, TSA charges a $45 ConfirmID fee per traveler for this identity-verification process, and the fee is non-refundable. Allow significant extra time, since travelers who cannot verify their identity may still be denied screening even after paying. Traveling with a REAL ID or another acceptable ID (such as a passport) avoids both the $45 fee and the extra screening/delay.
What Is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act (2005) established nationwide security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. Federal agencies, including TSA, cannot accept IDs from states that do not meet these standards. REAL ID-compliant cards are usually marked with a star in the upper corner.
Key Date
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement began for domestic air travel.
If You Don't Have a REAL ID
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license, you can still fly domestically using another acceptable form of identification (for example, a valid passport). If you arrive at security without a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, TSA may direct you through an additional identity-verification process (TSA ConfirmID), which carries a $45 fee per traveler as of February 1, 2026, plus extra screening or possible delays — so allow extra time, and bring an acceptable alternative ID whenever possible to avoid the fee.
How to Get a REAL ID
Every state has its own process. Visit the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page or your state's DMV website to learn how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card.
Accepted Forms of Identification
One valid non-expired government-issued photo ID:
- Driver's license (must be REAL ID-compliant as of May 7, 2025)
- State ID card
- Military ID card
- Passport or passport card
- Permanent Resident Card
- Native American tribal ID
- DHS trusted-traveler card (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS)
- Photo employment ID issued by a county, state, or federal agency
Children
Children under 18 do not need photo identification for domestic travel when traveling with an adult companion. Families traveling with unaccompanied minors should review the separate Meridian Young Flyers requirements, which differ from standard identification rules.
Tips for a Smooth Check-In
- Make sure the name on your ID matches the name on your itinerary and ticket exactly.
- Arrive with enough time to clear security, especially during busy travel periods.
- If you need help, reach out through the Agentic Airways Help Centre at agenticairways.ai.