Since May 7, 2025, TSA has required travelers 18 and older to show a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, at airport checkpoints. For travelers who arrive without acceptable ID, TSA introduced an alternative identity verification process called TSA ConfirmID, with a $45 fee, starting February 1, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- A REAL ID-compliant license usually has a star in the upper corner.
- Passports, passport cards, military IDs, trusted traveler cards and several other documents are also accepted.
- Travelers without acceptable ID can go through ConfirmID for a $45 fee, valid for a 10-day travel period, but verification is not guaranteed.
- Getting a REAL ID or carrying a passport avoids the fee and the delay.
What counts as acceptable ID
TSA’s list includes:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state ID cards
- US passports and passport cards
- DHS trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI
- US Department of Defense IDs
- Permanent resident cards
- Enhanced driver’s licenses
- Several other federal and tribal IDs
Check TSA.gov for the full list.
What ConfirmID is
ConfirmID is an alternative verification process for travelers who do not present acceptable ID. TSA attempts to verify identity using information the traveler provides. TSA has said the fee is $45, can be paid online before travel and covers a 10-day period. Even after paying, travelers may face additional screening, and TSA may deny entry to the checkpoint if identity cannot be verified.
How to check your license
Look for a star, typically gold or black, in the upper portion of the card. Some states use different markings. If your license says “Not for federal identification” or similar, it is not REAL ID-compliant.
Getting a REAL ID
Visit your state’s DMV website for requirements. You typically need:
- Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two proofs of residential address
- Documents showing name changes if applicable
Many states require an in-person visit; book early.
Children
TSA does not require children under 18 traveling with an adult in the US to show ID, but airlines may have their own requirements.
Expired IDs
TSA has accepted some expired IDs for a limited period after expiration. Check TSA’s current policy before travelling.
Tips to avoid delays
- Check your ID well before your trip.
- Carry your passport or passport card as a backup.
- Arrive early if you are unsure.
- Check the TSA website for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a REAL ID for domestic flights? You need a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, such as a passport.
Is ConfirmID the same as TSA PreCheck? No. PreCheck is a trusted traveler programme; ConfirmID is identity verification for travelers without acceptable ID.
Can I use a digital ID? TSA accepts mobile driver’s licenses from participating states at some checkpoints, but carry a physical ID too.
The bottom line
Check your license for the star, bring a passport if you do not have a REAL ID, and avoid the fee and uncertainty of identity verification at the airport.
