1. What Is a REAL ID?
As of May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all travelers aged 18 and older to present a valid, unexpired REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of identification to board domestic flights in the U.S. An expired U.S. passport is not accepted as valid identification for domestic air travel. The TSA mandates that all identification documents must be current and unexpired. While there were temporary allowances for expired IDs during the COVID-19 pandemic, these exceptions have ended.
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. A REAL ID-compliant card is marked with a star in the upper right-hand corner. Starting May 7, 2025, these IDs are required for boarding domestic flights and accessing certain federal facilities.
2. Acceptable Forms of Identification
If you don’t possess a REAL ID, you can still fly domestically by presenting one of the following valid, unexpired forms of identification:
* U.S. passport book or passport card
* DHS Trusted Traveler cards
* U.S. military ID
* Permanent resident card
* Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) from states like Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington
* Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
3.Expired Passports and Domestic Travel
An expired U.S. passport is not considered a valid form of identification for domestic flights. To travel domestically without a valid passport, you must obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID .
4. Compliance Rates and Statistics
As of mid-May 2025, approximately 93% of U.S. air travelers possess REAL ID-compliant identification. The remaining 7% may face additional screening procedures at airport security checkpoints .
5. Impact on Travelers
Travelers without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative may experience delays and additional screening at airport security. To avoid disruptions, ensure you have the proper identification well before your travel date .
6. Children and REAL ID
Children under 18 are not required to have a REAL ID when traveling with an adult who has acceptable identification. However, airlines may have specific requirements, so it’s advisable to check with your carrier before traveling .
7. International Travel Considerations
For international travel, a valid U.S. passport is still required. The REAL ID is not a substitute for a passport when traveling internationally .