How to Get a REAL ID (for Domestic Flights)
A REAL IDREAL ID-compliant license — A state driver's license or ID that meets federal security standards — required for domestic flights and federal buildings.Click for official info ↗ is a driver's license or state ID with a star on it. You need it for domestic flights. You get it at the DMVDepartment of Motor Vehicles — Your state agency for driver's licenses, state IDs, and vehicle registration. Some states call it the BMV, DPS, MVD, or DDS.Click for official info ↗. You must bring extra documents. Bring proof of identity, your SSNSocial Security Number — A 9-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration. It is the main US identity number for work, taxes, and credit.Click for official info ↗, and two proofs of where you live.
At a glance
- Cost:
- $30–$60 (varies by state)
- Total time:
- 1 DMV visit
- Steps:
- 5 steps
- Where to apply:
- dhs.gov
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official US sources(October 2026).
0 of 5 steps
- Before You Go 5 min
Check if you already have one
Look at your license. Do you see a star (and/or flag) marking? Or do you see the word "Enhanced"? Then your license already follows the REAL ID rules. Note this too. A valid passport works for flights instead of a REAL ID.
Click to mark as done
- Before You Go 30 min
Use your state's document checklist
Every state DMV website has a checklist you can use online. Print your results. Your documents must be original or certified. The names on all documents must match. If they do not match, bring your name-change papers.
Click to mark as done
- Before You Go 1 day
Gather the exact documents
The #1 reason the DMV turns people away is wrong paperwork. Photocopies are never accepted. Papers that prove where you live must usually be dated within 60–90 days.
Click to mark as done
- Go 1–2 hours
Book and attend your DMV appointment
Book online. Bring all your documents. Bring your current license too. The clerk checks your documents. The clerk takes your photo. The clerk collects the fee.
Click to mark as done
- Receive 1–3 weeks
Receive your REAL ID by mail
You get a temporary paper ID on the same day. The REAL ID arrives in 1–3 weeks. It has the star on it. It is valid for the same time as a standard license. Note this. TSA checkpoints do NOT accept a temporary paper ID. Do not rely on it for flights.
Click to mark as done
Be Careful
Don't make these mistakes
Bringing photocopies to the DMV. Photocopies are never accepted. Your documents must be original or certified. The number one reason the DMV turns people away is wrong paperwork.
Showing up with names that do not match. The names on all documents must match. If they do not match, bring your name-change papers.
Using old proof of where you live. Papers that prove where you live must usually be dated within 60 to 90 days.
Relying on the temporary paper ID for flights. You get a temporary paper ID on the same day, but TSA checkpoints do not accept a temporary paper ID. Do not rely on it for flights. The REAL ID arrives in 1 to 3 weeks.
Assuming your current license already works. Look at your license. Do you see a star marking or the word "Enhanced"? Then your license already follows the REAL ID rules. A standard license alone is no longer enough at TSA checkpoints. A valid passport works for flights instead of a REAL ID.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a REAL ID to fly?
Yes. For domestic flights, you now need a license that follows the REAL ID rules. You can also use a valid passport. Or you can use another federal ID that TSA accepts. A standard license alone is no longer enough at TSA checkpoints. There are two exceptions. Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights in the US. And since 1 February 2026 travellers without an acceptable ID may use TSA ConfirmID. It costs a $45 fee. It covers a 10-day travel period. TSA may not be able to verify you. Expect delays.
Can I use a foreign passport instead?
Yes. TSA accepts a valid foreign passport for domestic flights. It is the common choice for undocumented residents who cannot get a REAL ID.
Does a REAL ID work as a passport?
No. REAL ID is for domestic flights and federal buildings only. You still need a passport book for international travel. See our passport guide.
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