Travel Glossary · Documents & Entry
REAL ID
Definition
REAL ID: A REAL ID is a federally compliant state driver’s license or ID card; since May 7, 2025, adults need one, or another accepted ID, to pass TSA airport security.
TSA began enforcing REAL ID on May 7, 2025. Travelers 18 and older need a REAL ID–compliant license or another acceptable document, such as a US passport, passport card, or Trusted Traveler card like Global Entry, to pass airport security for domestic flights. Compliant licenses usually carry a star marking; California’s shows a gold bear with a star.
REAL ID is about domestic identification only. It is not a passport and cannot be used for international travel. Some states also issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, which are acceptable at TSA checkpoints and for certain land and sea crossings from Canada and Mexico.
Without acceptable ID, you may face extra screening and delays, or be turned away at the checkpoint. If your license is not compliant, carrying your passport is the easy fix. See our REAL ID explainer.
Related terms
Go deeper
- Travel GuidesREAL ID Explained: What You Need to Fly in the USREAL ID explained: since May 7, 2025 you need a compliant license or other accepted ID to fly domestically. See what qualifies and what happens without one.
- Travel GuidesTSA PreCheck Guide: Cost, How to Apply, and Whether It’s Worth ItTSA PreCheck explained: how expedited screening works, 2026 enrollment costs, how to apply and renew, rules for kids, and when Global Entry is the better buy.
- Travel GuidesUS Passport Renewal Guide: How to Renew, Costs, and TimingUS passport renewal made simple: who can renew by mail or online, 2026 fees, processing times, and when to renew before international travel to avoid problems.
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