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Do you need a star on your driver's license to fly?

Published in Domestic Air Travel ID 4 mins read

Yes, generally, as of May 7, 2025, a driver's license or state ID used for domestic air travel must be REAL ID-compliant, which is typically indicated by a star, circle with a star, or similar marking. If your state-issued driver's license or ID card does not have this marking, you will need an alternative acceptable form of identification to board a domestic flight after this date.

What Does the Star Mean?

The star on your driver's license signifies that it is a REAL ID-compliant card. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver's licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes include boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.

The Upcoming REAL ID Enforcement Deadline

The critical date for REAL ID enforcement for domestic air travel is May 7, 2025.

  • Before May 7, 2025: You can currently use a non-REAL ID compliant driver's license or state ID to board a domestic flight.
  • Beginning May 7, 2025: You will no longer be able to use a non-REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID to board a domestic flight. This means if your license or state ID does not have the star or other REAL ID compliance indicator, it will not be accepted.

Why the Deadline Matters

This deadline is important because it changes the requirements for boarding domestic flights. Ensuring your identification meets the REAL ID standards or having an alternative acceptable ID ready is crucial for seamless air travel after May 7, 2025.

Alternatives to a REAL ID Compliant Driver's License

If you do not upgrade your driver's license or state ID to a REAL ID-compliant version, or simply prefer not to, you can still fly domestically by using a different acceptable form of identification.

Here are some commonly accepted forms of ID:

  • U.S. passport
  • U.S. passport card
  • DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • U.S. military ID (active duty or retired military personnel)
  • Permanent resident card (Green Card)
  • Border crossing card
  • Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
  • HSPD-12 PIV card
  • Foreign government-issued passport
  • Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
  • Transportation worker identification credential (TWIC®)
  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

Acceptable Forms of Identification for Domestic Flights

To help you prepare, here’s a quick reference on common acceptable IDs:

ID Type Notes
REAL ID-Compliant Driver's License/ID Indicated by a star (or similar marking) on the card. Required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025, if using a state-issued ID.
U.S. Passport Always an acceptable form of identification for domestic air travel, regardless of the REAL ID deadline. Also required for international travel.
U.S. Passport Card Only valid for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. Also accepted for domestic flights.
DHS Trusted Traveler Programs Cards such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST are issued to pre-approved, low-risk travelers. These cards are accepted for domestic flights.
U.S. Military ID Accepted for active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel.
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) Valid for lawful permanent residents of the U.S. and accepted for domestic air travel.
Other Government-Issued IDs Federally recognized tribal-issued photo IDs, foreign government-issued passports, and other specific federal IDs like TWIC are also accepted.

How to Obtain a REAL ID

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, you will typically need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent state agency. You will be required to present specific documents proving your:

  • Identity (e.g., birth certificate, valid U.S. passport)
  • Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form)
  • Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)

It is advisable to check your state's specific DMV website for a precise list of required documents and any appointment procedures before your visit.