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Since May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant license, a passport or another accepted ID to fly within the U.S. Without one, TSA now charges $45 to verify your identity. Here’s how to get yours.
Look for a star in the top corner of your driver’s license or state ID. If it’s there, you’re set. If not, book a DMV appointment and bring proof of identity, your Social Security number and two proofs of address, or fly with your passport instead.
Exact documents vary by state. Check your state DMV’s REAL ID checklist before your appointment.
A valid U.S. passport or passport card is accepted at every TSA checkpoint. If yours has expired, renewing it is often easier than a DMV visit, and it covers international trips too.
Look for a star (gold, black or another marking) in the upper corner of your license or state ID. No star usually means it isn’t compliant.
Since February 1, 2026, travelers without acceptable ID can pay $45 for TSA ConfirmID, covering a 10-day travel period. It can cause delays, and paying doesn’t guarantee you’ll be verified.
No. TSA doesn’t require ID for travelers under 18 flying domestically.
No. REAL ID is only required for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights and entering some federal buildings.