REAL ID versus passport: which one do I need to travel?

You might’ve heard about REAL ID, which is a program that requires Americans to use specific types of identification 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.

Beginning on May 7, 2025, all travelers flying on commercial aircraft will be 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.

Find cheap flights

In this post

What is a REAL ID?
Why do you need a REAL ID?
Is the application for a REAL ID easier than for a passport?
REAL ID versus passport: Which one do you need for domestic travel?
Does the REAL ID replace the passport for international travel?
FAQ

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.

A female traveller checking in for her flight at the airport.

In the bustling international airport hall, a young woman confidently walks with her passport in hand, pulling her suitcase beside her, as the busy surroundings blur in the background.

Why do you need a REAL ID?

Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers flying on commercial aircraft will need a REAL ID–compliant identity document to go through airport security. Each state will issue its own REAL IDs, which will often be a special kind of driver’s license. But there are also non–driver’s license forms of REAL ID, too.

Expert tip: The rollout day for REAL ID has been postponed for more than a decade, so keep an eye on that launch date. It might change again.

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, and it usually will take less time to process than a passport. 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. 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, as you will have to take a permit test and practice driving with a learner permit first. Passport applications require filing out paperwork, showing documents and going to a passport acceptance facility in-person.

REAL ID versus passport: Which one do you need for domestic travel?

Starting May 7, 2025, you will 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.

Expert tip:There are many forms of REAL ID–compliant identification beyond a state-issued REAL ID. These include passports, passport cards, and Global Entry cards, among other documents. You can find the full list of accepted documents at tsa.gov.

A curly-haired woman stares at the airport flight information screens while holding her passport and boarding pass.

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.

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.

Conclusion

REAL IDs will not be accepted for international travel, but they will be required for domestic air travel beginning May 7, 2025. A passport will be accepted as an alternative to a REAL ID, and it can be used for international travel.

How KAYAK knows what to put in this guide

As a travel writer, I must stay on top of all requirements regarding both domestic and international travel. For this guide, I researched the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policies for REAL ID on the government website, as well as looked into individual state policies on their DMV sites. I also consulted the U.S. Department of State website for information regarding passports and international travel.

Young Asian business woman going on a business trip. Business and leisure travel.

REAL ID versus passport: Frequent questions

No, you cannot.

You can until May 7, 2025. Starting that day, you will need a REAL ID or a REAL ID alternative (like a passport) to fly in the US.

Yes, you can. Passports are accepted as an alternative to REAL IDs.

The foregoing article was last updated on the 27th of November 2023. 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