Beginning May 3, 2023, domestic U.S. travelers who wish to fly on commercial aircraft will be required to possess a REAL ID-compliant card issued by their state’s driver’s-licensing agency, or an acceptable alternative such as a U.S. passport. All U.S. states are required to issue REAL ID-compliant cards by the same date.
Domestic travelers who do not have REAL ID-compliant cards or an acceptable alternative will not be permitted to access federal facilities, which include TSA airport security checkpoints. Children under 18 will be exempt from REAL ID requirements when traveling with an adult companion with acceptable identification. (Travelers from other countries can read about U.S. entry requirements here.)
If you are planning a domestic trip to Orlando on or after May 7, 2025, please ensure that you have REAL ID-compliant identification or an acceptable alternative before arriving at your airport. The upper top portion of REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of five markings: a gold star, a black star, a gold circle with white star, a black circle with white star, or a gold bear with white star.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant card, visit your state’s driver’s-licensing agency website to learn what your state requires to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, you will need to provide documentation for your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of principal residence, and lawful U.S. status.
As of Sept. 5, 2019, 50 U.S. states and territories are fully compliant with REAL ID requirements, and all states will begin issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs by May 7, 2025. Additionally, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards.
See visual examples of REAL ID-compliant markings and cards, and read more about the REAL ID Act.
