You might’ve heard about REAL ID, which is a program that requires Americans to use specific types of identification to enter airports, certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants. Since you’re probably curious about its travel implications, that’s what we’ll focus on here.
Since May 7, 2025, all travelers flying on commercial aircraft are required to present a REAL ID-compliant identity document. But does REAL ID replace a passport for international travel? No, it does not. Here’s everything you need to know about REAL IDs vs. passports.
What is a REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses. Because many forms of ID are issued by states rather than the federal government, they’re not all on the same page regarding security. The REAL ID Act aims to bring IDs used for high-security situations up to the same level on a national scale.
REAL ID-compliant cards carry a special marking (often a star) and are required to access federal facilities, enter nuclear power plants, and board federally regulated commercial aircraft unless you use an accepted alternative like a passport. Each state issues its own REAL IDs, and implementation details vary by jurisdiction.
Why do you need a REAL ID?
Since May 7, 2025, all travelers flying on commercial aircraft need a REAL ID-compliant identity document to go through airport security. TSA began full enforcement on this date, and every passenger 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant state credential or another TSA-accepted document at the security checkpoint.
Each state issues its own REAL IDs, which are often a special kind of driver’s license. But there are also non-driver’s license forms of REAL ID, too. State motor vehicle agencies issue REAL ID driver licenses and may also issue REAL ID-compliant non-driver identification cards, with procedures and card types varying by state.
REAL ID versus passport: Which one do you need for domestic travel?
Since May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to go through airport security for domestic flights. Passports are accepted as an alternative to REAL IDs, so you can use one at airport security.
TSA’s official list of acceptable identification at security checkpoints includes U.S. passport books and passport cards, DHS Trusted Traveler cards (such as Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI), military IDs, permanent resident cards, state Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (where issued), tribal IDs, and other listed documents.
Does the REAL ID replace the passport for international travel?
No, you will not be able to use a REAL ID to travel internationally. You must have a passport or a passport card (depending on your destination) to travel internationally. REAL ID credentials are not valid for international air travel, and a passport book (or other internationally accepted travel document) is required to board international flights.
For most international air travel you must have a passport book. Passport cards are limited to land and sea border crossings with Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean nations and are not valid for international air travel. Always consult country-specific entry requirements on travel.state.gov.
The passport is the ultimate form of ID for travel. It’s required for international flights, but it’s also accepted as a REAL ID alternative for domestic flights. That said, it’s not a bad idea to get a REAL ID, so you don’t need to use your passport for domestic travel. Instead, you can keep it safe at home.
Is the application for a REAL ID easier than for a passport?
There is no standard application for REAL IDs. It varies per state. Generally speaking, it’s fairly easy to get a REAL ID. Each state issues its own application and process, requiring proof of identity, Social Security (or ineligibility), and residency per DHS guidance. Most states’ processes include bringing various documents to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that prove your identity and residency in the state, then you will receive your ID in the mail.
Processing times vary by state and by whether you already hold a state license. State REAL ID issuance (when applied as an upgrade or renewal) is often completed faster than routine U.S. passport processing (approximately 4 to 6 weeks), but REAL ID timing depends on the state DMV’s appointment and processing backlog and whether you need to obtain a new driver’s license (which may take longer).
But if you are looking to get a REAL ID driver’s license, and you do not already have a driver’s license, that will take far more effort. If you are applying for a first-time driver’s license, you must follow the standard driver licensing process (written permit, behind-the-wheel requirements, testing) in addition to presenting REAL ID documentation. That makes obtaining a REAL ID driver’s license more time-consuming than a simple ID upgrade, as you will have to take a permit test and practice driving with a learner permit first.
Passport applications require filling out paperwork, presenting documents, and appearing in-person at a passport acceptance facility. U.S. passports require completing DS-11 (for first-time applicants or other ineligible renewals) or using renewal options, presenting citizenship and identity evidence, and (for most applicants) appearing at an authorized passport acceptance facility or agency.
Conclusion
REAL IDs are not accepted for international travel, but they are required for domestic air travel since May 7, 2025. A passport will be accepted as an alternative to a REAL ID, and it can be used for international travel. The bottom line? If you already have a passport, use it for both domestic and international flights. If you fly domestically often, getting a REAL ID can be a convenient option that lets you keep your passport safely stored at home.
REAL ID versus passport: Frequent questions
Look for the REAL ID marking on the card’s top, commonly a gold or black star (or a different compliant symbol) in the upper portion of the card. If you don’t see a star or similar marking, check your state DMV website or the DHS REAL ID list to confirm compliance.
If you don’t present a REAL ID-compliant card (or an accepted alternative) at TSA, you may be denied access through the security checkpoint and unable to board. Accepted alternatives include a passport, passport card, or other TSA-approved documents.
Not generally. REAL ID cards are not valid for international travel by air, and they are not a substitute for a passport for most border crossings. Some states issue Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) that are specifically approved for land and sea crossings to Canada and Mexico.
Yes. Non-citizens with acceptable proof of identity and lawful status may receive REAL ID-compliant cards, but many temporary-status categories receive limited-term REAL IDs. Document requirements and whether a full-term or temporary REAL ID is issued depend on state policy and the applicant’s immigration documentation.
No. REAL ID sets national standards for issuing IDs but does not create a federal database. Each state continues to issue and maintain its own records and controls access to them.
Yes, you can. A valid U.S. passport (book) or passport card is accepted at TSA checkpoints as an alternative to REAL ID for domestic flights. The passport book remains required for international air travel.
The foregoing article was last updated in December 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Sources:
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
https://dmv.ny.gov/id-card/get-non-driver-id-card-ndid
https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/get-your-learner-permit-and-first-driver-license
https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs
https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/passports/forms-fees/Real%20ID%20Infographic_2022%20Update.pdf
