What If You Don’t Have a REAL ID? TSA Rules and Travel Tips 2025
 Who Needs a REAL ID? What Happens If I Don’t Have One? |
 Do Kids Need a REAL ID to Fly? What Parents Need to Know? |
With the REAL ID enforcement officially in effect, many Americans are asking: What happens if I don’t have a REAL ID? Can I still fly? The answer is yes—but there are important details to know before heading to the airport. This guide explains your options, what to expect at TSA checkpoints, and how to prepare if you don’t yet have a REAL ID.
Summary: What To Do Without a REAL ID• You can still fly if you have a passport or other TSA-approved ID. • Without any ID, expect extra screening and delays. • Apply for REAL ID at your state DMV as soon as possible. • Arrive early if you’re unsure about your ID status. |
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| What To Do If You Don’t Have a REAL ID |
What is REAL ID and Why Does It Matter?
As of May 7, 2025, travelers 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted form of identification to board domestic flights or enter secure federal facilities. REAL ID is not just another version of a driver’s license—it's a federally standardized ID designed to strengthen identity verification and enhance security across the country.
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, was created in response to vulnerabilities identified after 9/11. Its purpose is to improve document integrity and reduce the risk of identity fraud or terrorism involving air travel.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID?
According to TSA Administrator Adam Stahl, if you show up to the airport without a REAL ID but do have another approved ID, you will still be allowed to board your domestic flight. These alternatives include:
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A valid U.S. passport
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A military ID
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Global Entry card
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Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
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DHS Trusted Traveler cards (e.g., NEXUS, SENTRI)
If you don’t have a REAL ID or any of the above documents, you may still be allowed to fly, but you should expect additional screening measures at the TSA checkpoint.
Additional Screening: What to Expect
If you don’t present a REAL ID or an alternative, TSA will still try to verify your identity, but the process may include:
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More in-depth questioning
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Enhanced pat-downs or bag checks
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Review of additional personal documents, if available
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Delays that could cause you to miss your flight if you don’t arrive early
Key advice from TSA: Arrive early—at least 2 to 3 hours before your flight—to give yourself time for extra screening.
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Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
If you don’t have a REAL ID but still want to fly or access federal buildings, you can use one of these TSA-approved IDs:
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| Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID |
What If You Have No Valid ID at All?
If you arrive at the airport with no valid ID, TSA officers may still allow you to fly, but you must undergo identity verification. This may include:
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Providing your name, address, and other personal information
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Submitting to secondary screening
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Waiting while TSA confirms your identity through internal systems
This process is not guaranteed and can be time-consuming, so it’s not recommended unless absolutely necessary.
Who Cannot Fly Without REAL ID or Alternatives?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) clarified that undocumented individuals who cannot present REAL ID or an accepted form of identification will not be allowed to board domestic flights. REAL ID is also part of immigration enforcement efforts, ensuring only legally present individuals can travel domestically by air.
What You Should Do If You Don't Have REAL ID Yet
If you haven’t upgraded to REAL ID and have upcoming travel plans, follow these steps:
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Check your current ID: Look for a star in the top right corner to confirm it’s REAL ID-compliant.
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Apply for REAL ID at your DMV: You’ll need to bring:
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Proof of identity (e.g., passport or birth certificate)
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Social Security Number (e.g., card, W-2)
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Two proofs of residency (e.g., utility bills, lease)
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Use your passport in the meantime: If you have a valid passport, use it to fly domestically until you upgrade your license.
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Arrive early at the airport: If you're not sure your ID is compliant, give yourself extra time at security in case additional screening is needed.
Common Myths About REAL ID
Myth: TSA will deny boarding without REAL ID after May 7, 2025.
Fact: You may still fly using a passport or another valid form of ID.
Myth: REAL ID is part of a national surveillance system.
Fact: According to TSA Administrator Stahl, there is no national database tied to REAL ID. The program focuses solely on document and identity integrity.
Final Thoughts: Don't Wait
If you don’t have a REAL ID yet, don’t panic—but don’t delay either. While TSA allows alternatives, travelers without any valid ID may face delays, stress, or even missed flights. Get your documents in order now to fly with peace of mind.
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