Overview
Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID will change what identification you need to fly in the United States.
REAL ID is a federal law that requires all states to comply with new identification standards for air travel.
When REAL ID goes into effect in 2025, you’ll need more than a standard state-issued driver’s license to fly. You will need to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, like a valid passport or U.S. military ID, to fly within the U.S.
Learn more about flying with a REAL ID.
Oregon Residents
Oregon DMV began offering a REAL ID-compliant driver license in July 2020. Head to www.Oregon.gov/REALID to see if you’re ready for REAL ID or book an appointment for a REAL-ID license.
Washington State Residents
Washington state residents can also get a REAL ID-compliant license. You’ll need to ask for an Enhanced Driver License or Enhanced ID Card. Both are REAL ID compliant. Learn more about Washington’s option at https://id2020wa.com.
Residents from other states
If you are not sure if your identification complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles.
Approved IDs
An updated driver’s license isn’t the only identification that will get you through security at the airport. Acceptable forms of identification for air travel include:
- REAL ID driver’s license or other REAL ID-compliant state photo identity card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license
- 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)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
FAQ
REAL ID is a federal law that requires all states to comply with new ID standards for air travel. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant form of ID to fly in the United States. Learn more about flying with a REAL ID.
Oregon DMV began issuing REAL ID cards in July 2020. Head to www.Oregon.gov/REALID to explore your options and book an appointment to get a REAL ID-compliant license.
Yes. Washington state is issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses today. They are called an Enhanced Driver License or Enhanced ID Card. Learn how to get yours.
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling with an adult within the United States. Contact your airline for questions about specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.
If you have a passport, you have all you need to fly in the United States. Just don't forget to bring it to the airport!
No. TSA currently accepts several other forms of identity documents and will continue to do so. For more information on acceptable forms of identification for boarding aircraft, please see TSA's website.