What is REAL ID?

REAL ID: REAL ID is the federal standard for state driver's licenses and ID cards that TSA has required for domestic flights since May 7, 2025.

Compliant cards usually show a star in the top corner. A valid passport also works at TSA checkpoints.

Source: TSA: REAL ID

Where is this term explained in more depth?

• When should I book each part of a trip?
• Do I need a REAL ID to fly?

Which terms are related?

• Passport card: A passport card is a wallet-size U.S. passport valid only for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda and the Caribbean.
• TSA PreCheck: TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that lets approved travelers use expedited security lanes at participating U.S. airports.

Back to the full travel glossary