Traveling without a Real ID? Here are the documents you can use instead

As the May 7 deadline approaches for the nationwide enforcement of the REAL ID Act, travelers across the United States are making last-minute visits to their local Departments of Motor Vehicles.

However, those who have yet to obtain a REAL ID need not worry, as the government has approved some alternatives.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirms that several alternative forms of identification remain acceptable for domestic air travel.


Enacted in 2005, the REAL ID Act was introduced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enhance the security of state-issued identification documents.

After multiple extensions, the federal requirement is finally set to take effect in 2025.

What Is a REAL ID?

The REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that complies with federal standards. These cards are marked with a star in the upper corner, signifying compliance.

From May 7 onward, all travelers aged 18 and older will need to show a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights within the U.S, as per a report by USA Today.

According to DHS, this move is aimed at strengthening national security by standardizing identity verification across states.

Enhanced ID: An Alternative with Added Benefits

While REAL ID is the commonly recognized standard, travelers residing in certain states may already possess another compliant document: the Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL).

Issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington, the EDL serves as both a driver’s license and proof of U.S. citizenship.

It also allows land or sea travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean nations without the need for a passport.

Though it may lack the star emblem, the Enhanced ID is still recognized by TSA due to its federal compliance. These cards are identified by an American flag and the word “Enhanced” printed prominently at the top.

TSA-Approved Alternatives to REAL ID

The TSA has issued a comprehensive list of identification documents that will be accepted at security checkpoints, as mentioned in a report by USA Today.

These include:

• U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs)
• DHS Trusted Traveler Program cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including dependent IDs
• Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards)
• Border Crossing Cards
• Federally recognized Tribal-issued photo IDs
• Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
• HSPD-12 PIV cards
• Foreign government-issued passports
• Canadian provincial driver’s licenses
• Transportation Worker Identification Credentials
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (Form I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Cards (VHIC)

Can I Still Fly with My Passport?

Yes. The TSA has confirmed that both the U.S. passport book and passport card are fully acceptable for domestic air travel. Travelers heading abroad will still require a valid passport book for international trips.

FAQs

What is a REAL ID in the US?

A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or ID card that also meets federal identification standards for official purposes.

What is the latest deadline for REAL ID?

After multiple delays, the deadline to obtain a REAL ID is quickly approaching. Beginning May 7, a REAL ID-compliant license or ID will be required for domestic air travel within the U.S.